2019 Lorain County General Election Guide

2019 GENERAL

Take a closer look at the candidates and issues on the Nov. 5th ballot

TUESDAY, OCT. 22, 2019

CHRONICLET.COM

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Tuesday, October 22, 2019

CANDIDATES

3 Amherst Council 2nd Ward .............................................. 3 Amherst Council 3rd Ward ............................................... 4 Amherst Council 4th Ward ............................................... 4 Avon Council at-large ..................................................... 5 Avon Lake mayor ........................................................... 6 Avon Lake Council 3rd Ward ............................................ 4 Amherst Board of Trustees .............................................. 6 Brownhelm Board of Trustees ....................................... 21 Carlisle Township Board of Trustees ............................... 22 Clearview school board................................................ 24 Carlisle Township fiscal officer ......................................... 2 Columbia Township fiscal officer ................................... 23 Elyria mayor.................................................................. 7 Elyria law director .......................................................... 8 Elyria Municipal Court judge ............................................ 8 Elyria Council at-large..................................................... 9 Elyria Council 3rd Ward ................................................ 10 Elyria Council 7th Ward ................................................ 10 Elyria Township Board of Trustees.................................. 23 Grafton Council ......................................................... 12 Grafton Township Board of Trustees ............................... 23 Keystone school board ................................................ 24 LaGrange mayor ......................................................... 19 Lorain Municipal Court clerk ......................................... 12 Lorain mayor.............................................................. 13 Lorain Council 4th Ward ............................................... 14 Lorain Council 8th Ward ............................................... 14 North Ridgeville mayor................................................. 15 North Ridgeville Council 2nd Ward ................................. 15 North Ridgevile Council 3rd Ward................................... 16 North Ridgevile Council 4th Ward ................................... 16 Oberlin Council........................................................... 17 South Amherst mayor .................................................. 19 Sheffield mayor .......................................................... 20 Sheffield Township Board of Trustees ............................. 24 Midview school board .................................................. 25 Amherst Council at-large.................................................

ELECTION 2019

The Chronicle-Telegram

Wellington school board ...............................................

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Wellington Village Council.............................................

20

ISSUES Issue 2: Columbia Township library renewal .....................

Issue 3: Columbia Township local option

30

........................29

Issue 4A and 4b: Eaton Township liquor option .................

29

Issue 5: Elyria Township liquor option..............................

29

Issue 6: New Russia Township liquor option .....................

29

Issue 7: Pittsfield Township renewal for roads ..................

30

Issue 8: Avon Schools levy ............................................

26

Issue 9: Avon Schools bonds.........................................

26

Issue 10: Columbia Schools substitute levy ......................

26

Issue 11: Columbia Schools renewal levy.........................

26

Issue 12: Erie County General Health District levy..............

27

Issue 13: Lorain Schools renewal levy .............................

27

Issue 14: Lorain County JVS levy ....................................

28

Issue 15: New London Schools levy

...............................28

Issue 16: North Ridgeville Schools bond issue ..................

29

Issue 17: North Ridgeville Schools operating issue ............

29

Issue 18: Wellington Schools levy ...................................

28

Issue 19: Lorain County crime lab improvement levy..........

30

Issue 20: Amherst marijuana ordinance ...........................

31

Issue 21: Avon rezoning................................................

32

Issue 22: Avon local option ...........................................

32

Issue 23: Avon local option ...........................................

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Issue 24: to 28 Elyria local options

.................................32

Issue 29: South Amherst fire levy ...................................

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CARLISLE TOWNSHIP FISCAL OFFICER

Incumbent Fiscal Officer Kimberly Fallon squares off against Richard R.Willard Jr. in the November election. Fallon touts her background and proven track record as her strengths, while Willard backs his years of service as treasurer of the township’s Volunteer Firefighter Association as a reason to cast a ballot for him instead.

What makes you the best candidate for the position?

Fallon: I am the best candidate for fiscal officer of Carlisle Township because I have the background in accounting needed for the position, the highest of integrity and ethics in performance of the position, and have been fiscally responsible with the job the residents elected me to do since 2012. I have increased interest revenue from $4,000 a year to $45,000 a year and increased the budget from $2.4 million to $4.5 million. Services that were once contracted out are now being performed in-house, which is another additional savings that I have brought to the position since is elected.

Willard: I bring experience and knowledge from a diverse skill set. I’m loyal and reliable. I like to be challenged and multi-task. I’m a problem solver that is known for thinking outside the box. I currently, and have for the past 10 years, served as the treasurer for the Carlisle Township Volunteer Firefighter Association. As a resident of Carlisle Township for 45 years, I know and understand the needs of the township and its residents. As a team player, I intend to work with the trustees to ensure that those needs are met.

See CARLISLE, 16

KIMBERLY FALLON Age: 52 Party: nonpartisan Education: Studied accounting at Lorain County Community College Family: Married; three children Job history: 2012-present, Carlisle Township fiscal officer; 2013-present LaGrange fiscal officer; 2001-present, owner Fallon of Carlisle Accounting Services Website: None

RICHARD R. WILLARD JR. Age: 57 Party: nonpartisan Education: Keystone High School graduate Family: married; three children and one grandchild Job history: employed with Republic Waste Services Website: none

Willard

ELECTION 2019

The Chronicle-Telegram

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

AMHERST COUNCIL AT-LARGE

MARTIN M. HEBERLING III

Four candidates, two Democrats and two Republicans, are vying for three open Amherst Council at-large seats.

It is a two-year term.

There is only one newcomer on the slate, Bradley Lacko. Phil Van Treuren has been on Council for 10 years, finishing up a fifth term. David Janik is seeking his third term. Heberling has served on Council since January.

Age: 43 Party: Democrat Education: bachelor of education, Ashland University; associate’s degree in police science, Lorain County Community College Family: Married to Kyle; son, Jacob Job history: teacher of sixth grade language arts/ social studies at Lorain City Schools; previously a water treatment operator with city of Cleveland

What makes you the best candidate for the position?

Heberling: I am a father, a husband, and tax-paying homeowner. I understand the fiscal challenges that coincide with those responsibilities. I understand how vital our schools are to the community because I am an Amherst alumni and I have a child who attends Amherst Schools. I believe that a well-supported infrastructure is key to community pride and strong economic growth.

Finally, I will do all I can to help foster community involvement with families and senior citizens.

After all, we owe it to one another, and we owe it to the great city of Amherst.

Janik: There are two of us currently serving in the at-large position who have the most experience serving on Council. This experience is needed when important issues are discussed and a historical perspective on the issue is needed.

Lacko: I have great knowledge in a wide area of different aspects such as business management, construction, agriculture and logistics. It is my opinion from these 25-plus years of experiences I believe that I can be a great contributor to our city.

Van Treuren: I don’t think I am the best candidate for this position, necessarily. I know each of the people running, and they would all do a great job. Voters are able to choose three candidates for Council at-large, and I’d be honored if they chose me as one of them.

What is the biggest challenge facing the city and how would you address it?

Heberling: I think the biggest challenge facing any city is an aging infrastructure. Maintaining our infrastructure in the most responsible manner is key. As your current councilman at-large, I will continue to see that every concern presented to me is given the time deserved. I will also make sure that our residents will be kept up to date with all information and concerns. I will continue to do my best to exceed the expectations of our neighbors.

Janik: With land becoming more scarce as far as building more housing developments, we need to concentrate on attracting more business and industry folks to choose Amherst. My committee assignment in the area of utilities addressed this issue most recently by involving AMP Ohio and the sale of our electrical sub-stations so that they could help us build a “loop transmission” for electricity whereby our service becomes more reliable and less prone to outages in the future and may attract more business leaders to consider Amherst as their home base for operations.

Lacko: I am not currently on City Council so I am not aware of the city’s biggest challenge.

However, staying within a budget and trying to maintain our current city infrastructure while trying to grow and improve our city presents several challenges to address regularly.

Van Treuren: I think we need to continue updating our city’s aging streets, utilities, sidewalks and other infrastructure in a fiscally responsible and well-planned manner. The current administration under the leadership of Mayor Mark Costilow is doing a great job at this, and I will continue to support their efforts to do so if I’m given another term on City Council.

— Rini Jeffers

Heberling

DAVID JANIK Age: 49 Party: Democrat Education: master’s degree in education administration, Kent State University Family: wife Jeana; children Justin, 28, Hope, 21, Logan, 16, and Sam, 13 Job history: location coordinator, Academic Year in America; pre-college programs, Bowling Green State University from 2004 to April 2019

Janik

BRADLEY A. LACKO Age: 40 Party: Republican Family: wife Tracey; daughters Emily and Macy Job history: self-employed farmer/independent trucker

Lacko

PHIL VAN TREUREN Age: 42 Party: Republican Education: bachelor’s degree in English; graduate of U.S. Army Officer Candidate School Family: wife Sharon; children Sophia, 11, Stella 1, William 8 months Job history: Owner, Engage Media LLC

Treuren

AMHERST COUNCIL 2ND WARD Two candidates will vie for the chance to represent Amherst Council’s 2nd Ward. Ed Cowger, the incumbent has served in the position for 13 years. It is a twoyear term.

a highly recognized and beneficial part of the community as your Councilman for the 2nd Ward. I look forward to being given the opportunity to serve you.

What makes you the best candidate for this position?

Cowger: My experience is what I believe is the biggest reason I should be elected. I have served as a councilman for 13 years, a member of the Civil Service (board) for two years and a member for the Sandstone Joint Ambulance District Board for a year.

I know how the city’s finances have to be handled.

Horn: I was raised here, as was my wife, Ashley.

We now have a son who will grow up here and enjoy the same opportunities we were afforded. I am passionate about the community’s future growth and economic stability. I am committed to listening and reviewing all options presented and do the necessary research to come to the best conclusion for everyone.

I believe my integrity and motivation will make me

What is the biggest challenge facing the city and how would you address it?

Cowger: One of the things that we must address is some of the aging infrastructure. A proactive approach where there is plenty of time to react is much better than dealing in a reactive manner. I know that I would be able to work with the administration to come up with the best plan to achieve this.

Horn: Communication is an area that Amherst struggles with. There is so much good going on in our town and we need to share it. Imagine if we could get word out to make events that much more. My plan is to send out a quarterly email newsletter and the possibility of more if needed.

— Rini Jeffers

ED COWGER

Cowger

Age: 49 Party: Republican Family: married, one daughter Education: graduate of Marion L. Steele High School, 1984 Job history: restaurant manager for 30 years with Wendy’s

JOHN HORN

Horn

Age: 33 Party: Democrat Family: wife Ashley, son Hunter Education: Marion L. Steele High School graduate, 2004; associate’s degree of applied business, Lorain County Community College Job history: Information systems

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ELECTION 2019

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

AMHERST COUNCIL 3RD WARD Two candidates will vie to represent Amherst’s 3rd Ward.

Both are newcomers to the position. It is a two-year term.

What makes you the best candidate for the position?

Bockey: I feel that being a resident of and former business owner in Amherst, having raised two daughters who graduated from Marion L. Steele High School, also being a school bus driver that I have established myself as a caring and trusted person. I care about our community and have had the chance to speak with many neighbors and friends about different subjects concerning Amherst. I speak up for what is right and feel that we all have a right to express our views and concerns. Being elected to Amherst City Council 3rd Ward will be a great honor. I hope that everyone will continue to express their thoughts and concerns. This will help us stay connected.

This is my first time running and I am looking forward to being a voice for our community.

Wachholz: I love Amherst and want to serve as City Council member for the 3rd Ward. My experiences in customer service and education have prepared me to ensure the needs of residents are met. My family is very involved in the community. I am an Amherst Library Board trustee

and the JVS Parent Teacher Association president; my wife leads a Girl Scout troop and is on the leadership team for Amherst Mothers of Preschoolers. By regularly walking through town and talking with our neighbors, I see firsthand where Amherst can benefit from improvements, and how improvements already made have affected the city.

What is the biggest challenge facing the city and how would you address it?

Bockey: Keeping our infrastructure in good order, repairs are done on time and in an efficient matter. I have good relationships with community members and those on Council. When we come together for the good of Amherst, it keeps our town a very desirable and nice place to live.

Wachholz: I believe we need to lessen the tax burden of our citizens by encouraging businesses to establish and grow in Amherst. Now that Cooper Foster has been repaired, there is no excuse for the Amherst Plaza and surrounding lots to remain vacant. We, as a city, need to encourage new businesses that honor our values and will bring in tax revenue for the city.

— Rini Jeffers

The Chronicle-Telegram

SHELMA BOCKEY Age: 64 Party: Republican Education: college graduate Family: no children at home Job history: instructor, Northern Institute of Cosmetology, 20 years; owner/ Bockey operator of Adonis Style Salon and Tanning, five years; bus driver, Amherst Schools, 15 years; Realtor, Century 21 DeAnna Realty, 3.5 years

JAKE WACHHOLZ Age: 34 Party: Democrat Education: master’s degree, education.

Family: wife; two daughters Job history: special education teacher at Lorain County Joint Vocational School; previously worked in customer service for eight years

AVON LAKE COUNCIL 3RD WARD

AMHERST COUNCIL 4TH WARD Voters will choose from two candidates for one open seat to represent the 4th Ward. It is a two-year term. Matt Nahorn is the incumbent and is finishing his first term. He will face David J. Kovacs.

What makes you the best candidate for the position?

Kovacs: If elected, I will listen to your concerns and issues that are important to you. And you will have an advocate, representative and communicator on City Council. Lara and I are invested in the safety and financial success of our community.

Because of my family and small business, the future is on my mind every moment of every day. I have been a coach, general manager, advocate, business owner, educator, administrator and a leader of volunteers. And will serve the taxpayers. I am not a person who is scared to tackle the real issues that real folks face every day.

Nahorn: I thank the residents of Amherst’s 4th Ward for entrusting me with your vote to represent you on City Council over the past two years. As a lifelong, dedicated Amherst resident, I have regularly walked the ward, distributing useful information to residents, always including my contact information. I act as a conduit from local residents to their elected government, providing seamless and quick responses to citizens. When a resident has an issue or question, their representative must be easily accessible and a good listener. My longstanding goal of honoring our past, while preparing for a strong future is personally important.

What is the biggest challenge facing the city and how would you address it?

Kovacs: The biggest issue currently facing our ward is a lack of communication and follow through. I will address this by promising to visit each voters doorstep in both the spring and fall. In parts of our ward a major issue is keeping pedestrians safe. I had a mother tell me she voted for me because I want to keep her child safe from speeding cars. That is something I take very seriously. Finally, there are too many abandoned buildings. As a real estate agent, I know that is problematic. As a business owner, I know what attracts businesses.

Wachholz

DAVID J. KOVACS Age: 37 Party: Democrat Education: bachelor of arts, nonprofit administration, (magna cum laude) Cleveland State University Family: wife, Lara Kovacs; expecting first child.

Kovacs Job history: real estate agent, former educator, nonprofit advocate and administrator, volunteer leader Website: Facebook.com/KovacsForCouncil

MATT NAHORN Age: 29 Party: Republican Education: bachelor of arts, Oberlin College Family: Unmarried Job history: Local historian and environmental issues consultant

Nahorn

Nahorn: Amherst is a strong community with rich history.

Our town boasts an important balance of residential, business, and park/conserved land uses. Council needs to maintain this crucial balance, while ensuring residents are properly served by their local government. It is imperative that Council continues to encourage small business growth; promotes our downtown; and maintains our infrastructure. This must be done while continuing a tax structure that is both responsible and entices small businesses to remain or start in Amherst. By continuing to lay this groundwork, Amherst will be able to remain in an ideal position for the responsible balance discussed.

— Rini Jeffers

With Councilwoman Eileen Campo choosing not to seek election after being appointed to the 3rd Ward seat in 2018, two candidates are competing to take her place. Former Councilwoman Holly Moore Kowalski is up against retired law enforcement administrator and criminal investigator Gary Izo. What makes you the best candidate for the position?

Izo: My 30 years of government service and 17 years of managing homeowner and condominium associations would bring a unique skill set to the City Council. I am a member of the Avon Lake Board of Zoning Appeals and the Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee. I am also an active community volunteer. During August and September 2019, I walked Ward 3. It was a pleasure meeting face-to-face with the residents of Ward 3. I wanted to introduce myself to them and ask them what they feel are the issues facing Avon Lake. I stood in driveways, was invited into homes and sat on front porches. Ward 3 residents know what “good government’’ is and what needs to be done to move the city forward. Good constituent services and communication from the Council to the community is very important. Additionally, ensuring financial stability determines how resources will be allocated.

Kowalski: My 12 years of experience on Avon Lake City Council make me the best candidate for the coming City Council term. I know the ins and outs of city government and Lorain County government. In addition, I have taken on other leadership roles in many community organizations, such as the Women’s Club of Avon Lake, Avon-onLake Garden Club and the board of trustees of the Avon Lake Public Library.

See AVON LAKE, 5

ELECTION 2019

AVON COUNCIL AT-LARGE Four candidates are competing for three seats in the race for Avon Council at-large. Incumbents Brian Fischer, Tammy Holtzmeier and Council President Craig Witherspoon are looking to retain their positions while newcomer Charley Peters is hoping to secure a seat.

What makes you the best candidate for the position?

Fischer: As a 15-year resident of Avon, my law enforcement experience, real estate experience, business experience, my years of community service and my desire to make Avon the best it can be are reasons for our residents to support my campaign for re-election.

Holtzmeier: If reelected for a third term, I’m going to continue to be respectful to our residents and advocate for what is right. This includes looking after the health and finances of our city and looking out for the major investments of our residents, including property, safety and family. Continuing to be frugal for our taxpayers while being wise

about the planning process is critical. As the city continues to change and evolve, I’ll continue to be mindful of both the stresses and opportunities that growth brings residents.

There’s more work to be done. I’m ready to keep working for Avon.

Peters: I believe that my experience as an educator and as a member of the United States Army make me the best candidate for Avon City Council. In both roles, I had to learn to be flexible while always keeping the bigger picture/main goal/mission in mind.

Witherspoon: I have lived in the city for 44 years with my wife, Carolyn, and have raised two sons. I have been on City Council for 14 years, president of City Council for nine years so I am aware of what is happening in our community. All of this has given me the opportunity to see what the city needs to continue to be a place where people want to live and raise their families, start their businesses and enjoy all of the things that make Avon a great city.

AVON LAKE From 4

What is the biggest challenge facing the city and how would you address it?

Izo: We face new challenges every day.

Residents are most concerned with the aging infrastructure, increased traffic congestion, loss of woodland areas, access to

See AVON, 6

BRIAN FISCHER

CHARLEY PETERS

Age: 49 Party: nonpartisan Education: University of Cincinnati, applied science and criminal justice Family: married with five children Job history: Cleveland police, Fischer Keller Williams Real Estate, owner of Graffiti Wearhouse Website: facebook.com/fischer4avon

Age: 42 Party: nonpartisan Education: bachelor’s from Kent State University, master’s from Ohio University Family: wife Erin; twin daughters Ava and Elizabeth Job history: special education Peters teacher for six years; United States Army for eight years Website: Twitter: facebook.com/CharleyforACC

TAMMY HOLTZMEIER

CRAIG WITHERSPOON

Age: 47 Party: nonpartisan Education: certified financial executive, University of Colorado at the Stonier Graduate School of Banking Family: married for 21 years to Brant Holtzmeier; three sons who all attend Avon Holtzmeier Schools Job history: Avon councilwoman since 2013; banking executive and analyst with Profound Communications; one-time youngest female credit union CEO in the country Website: facebook.com/WeAreAvonOhio

the lakefront, property taxes and public safety. I will work for fiscal responsibility, safe streets and neighborhoods, efficient and timely delivery of city services, supporting local businesses and attracting new opportunities, and preserving and expanding our park and recreation areas. As a member of the Board of Zoning Appeals and Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee and attending Planning Commission and

Age: 70 Party: nonpartisan Education: bachelor’s degree in political science and history Family: Married Job history: U.S. Department of Justice (retired); Office of the Inspector General, criminal investigator; Federal Bureau of Prisons, correctional program administrator Website: none

Keep Jack on the job

Izo

Endorsed by The Chronicle Telegram

HOLLY MOORE KOWALSKI Age: 64 Party: nonpartisan Education: bachelor’s degree in retail management from University of Illinois, Champaign, Illinois; Naperville Central High School Family: Married to Joseph C. Kowalski in 1980; three adult children, Vince, John, Tricia Job history: Salvation Army Thrift Store, Avon, warehouse manager, closing manager, now a volunteer; Avon Lake City Council, 1992-2003

in 2020

Kowalski

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Age: 71 Party: nonpartisan Education: Elyria High School; Lorain County Community College, mechanical engineering Family: has lived in Avon for 44 years with wife Carolyn and two sons Witherspoon Job history: 32 year business owner Witherspoon Avon, Lorain; manager Berris Optical Rocky River; adjunct instructor at Cuyahoga Community College in Cleveland; Avon City Council for 14 years.

Website: none

City Council meetings, I learned first hand the challenges facing Avon Lake. We may not be able to solve all of them, but I want to be part of the solution to solve many of them.

Kowalski: The biggest issue facing the city is maintaining our lakefront, our parks, our roads and our buildings and living within our budget. Costs continue to go up.

Unfunded mandates from the state or fed-

Experience Counts!

GARY IZO

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

eral government continue to challenge our city and many others. Technology is continuing to change. We need to do more with economic development — bringing in new businesses and maintaining vitality in our existing business community. All of these issues will benefit from a team approach and careful planning.

— Dylan Reynolds

A lifetime spent in Elyriaa lifetime of service to Elyria I was born in Elyria. I grew up playing in her parks and attending her schools.

After graduating from Ashland University, I came back to Elyria, and lived and worked here ever since.

My family has a tradition of public service— my father was City Solicitor and Council member, and my grandfather was Mayor—and I have done what I could to continue giving something back to my hometown.

I have been a member, officer, or director in a dozen or more local organizations—including the YMCA, the Boy Scouts, the Elks Club, the county Historical Society, and the Elyria Public Library.

Above All, I have served Elyria as a member of its City Council for 33+ years.

I believe that now, more than ever, our City Council needs experienced members with an understanding of both government and business.

With your vote, I can continue to be one of them.

Paid for by Baird for Council, 237 Miami Avenue, Elyria, OH 44035. Jack Baird, Treasurer

©The Chronicle-Telegram

The Chronicle-Telegram

6

ELECTION 2019

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

The Chronicle-Telegram

AVON LAKE MAYOR Mayor Greg Zilka is challenged by Council President K.C. Zuber, who served as mayor a decade ago.

economy with a more flexible and business friendly code. We have been broadening Age: 72 our tax base in recent years by encouraging Party: nonpartisan businesses to expand and also locate in our What makes you the best candidate Education: Kent State University, bachelor of science degree in community. We connect potential busifor the position? education and master’s in education nesses with Jobs Ohio and Team NEO which Zilka: Our safety forces are some of the Family: married to Patti Zilka for 45 years; two children, Hila and Alex are state and regional agencies dedicated to best in the state. They need to participate Job history: Avon Lake Schools from Aug. 15, 1971 to June 1, 2006; help us keep and attract businesses. Lorain in regular training in order to develop their social studies teacher, Avon Lake High School; member of City Council Zilka from Aug. 1, 1985, to Dec. 31, 2011; mayor from Jan. 1, 2012, to Dec. skills in order to provide efficient and timely County Community College has been a big 31, 2019; Interim mayor from March 15, 2001 to May 15, 2001. service. With an infusion of new firefighters help in providing small businesses informaWebsite: gregzilka.com and police officers in the past several years tion and guidance through the Small Busiwe have cultivated a sense of pride and proness Development Corporation (SBDC).

K.C. ZUBER fessionalism that should keep them on the Zuber: As a community along Lake Erie’s top of their professional skills. We are fortuAge: 56 shoreline, Avon Lake must take advantage nate to have the support of the community Party: nonpartisan of the lakefront. Avon Lake has the only Education: bachelor’s in government and psychology 1985, Evangel which allows us to equip them with state of commercially zoned property on Lake Erie University in Springfield, Missouri; Avon Lake High School 1981 the art tools of the trade. between Lakewood and Lorain. Building Family: single Zuber: As both mayor and councilman, Job history: Avon Lake mayor, 2008-2012; Avon Lake councilman a marina and attracting shops and restauI brought together city, county, and state at-large 2018- present, 2002-2008; Avon Lake 4th Ward councilman, leaders, and a national nonprofit, to turn an rants to our lakefront will be the catalyst 1992-1995; Ohio Turnpike Commission, 2013-2018; Lorain County undeveloped area of our community into a to spur economic growth to this area. As Department of Job and Family Services, 1994-2008; Lorain County Lorain County Metro Park. I will work with mayor I will work with businesses, and our Juvenile Court, 1989-1994 Zuber these same entities again to finally bring elected officials, to initiate this long-awaited Website: Facebook page Friends of ZUBER development to Avon Lake’s lakefront. As development. I have a proven record of mayor I worked to replace our aged pool developing great plans and opportuniraise a family. are our most important issues.

We are in the creating one of the area’s best community ties for our community, and for bringing process of adopting a new land use plan for water parks. Avon Lake is a great place to What is the biggest challenge facing the the city and a planning and zoning code will together the right group of partners to make live. As mayor, I will bring more effective city and how would you address it? soon follow. We will have updated our codes this happen. and efficient management to make Avon — Dylan Reynolds Lake an even better place to live, work and Zilka: Economic development and safety to match the current challenges of our

AVON From 5

What is the biggest challenge facing the city and how would you address it?

Fischer: Our most important issue continues to be upgrading and improving our infrastructure. We continue to work on our roads, sidewalks, sewers and amenities while trying to keep costs to a minimum to the residents of Avon. As a member of Council, I approved and supported the widening of roads where possible, the sidewalk program, trying to put in as many as possible each year and the storm water utility to help improve and maintain our storm water issues. If reelected I will continue to work with the administration to accomplish these goals through grants and economic development, always keeping residents first.

Holtzmeier: Addressing our critical needs includes the planned installation of new turn lanes along jammed-up areas of Detroit Road and a future roundabout at Detroit and Nagel. These real-world projects are scheduled to be implemented over the next three-year period. They deploy broader solutions in Avon that will help reduce driver angst. I’ll continue flooding mitigation by maintaining stormwater infrastructure as well as continuing to authorize the upgrade and maintenance of critical drainage areas impacted by major rains. Enforcing strict planning requirements for new residential

GREG ZILKA

and commercial builds is a front-line action item I will continue supporting for continued growth.

Peters: I feel that the biggest issues facing the city of Avon currently are identity, communication, and infrastructure. Avon needs to establish an identity and direction that needs to be the main focus of everything that we as a Council do. City Hall needs to establish a better line of communication with the citizens and safety services. Whether that be through a newsletter, constant updates through social media, or a recorded message delivered to everyone we need to make sure the people are informed. We need to be proactive when it comes to infrastructure so that we can keep up with the growth that we are currently experiencing.

Witherspoon: Anyone living or visiting our city has experienced traffic congestion.

We were a small farming and greenhouse community that has grown to be a destination location. Not a terrible problem to have, but it does put a strain on our roadways.

The administration and Council are working hard to ease up the congestion by paving and widening some roads, improving intersections and revamping signalization.

This unfortunately does not happen overnight but with the leadership that we have in place we can make it happen.

— Dylan Reynolds

AMHERST TOWNSHIP TRUSTEE Incumbent Amherst Township Trustee David C. Urig squares off against Jim McCann in the November general election. Urig’s ability to go against the majority is an asset to the position, he said. His challenger did not respond despite repeated attempts to contact him.

What makes you the best candidate for the position?

Urig: I bring needed balance to the board. I am not afraid to question. Most times I am the dissenting vote in a 2-1 vote. I care where the township is going. I am fiscally prudent.

What is the biggest challenge facing the township and how would you address it?

Urig: I have long supported slow, controlled growth and keeping the 1 unit/acre density of the R-AG zone, even though others have not.

Community involvement needs to be encouraged. There is a lot of apathy out there. I would like to seek more outside funding when available to augment township funds, continue to work with the Sheriff’s Department to reduce crime and work with the Road Department to maintain roads on a stretched budget.

— Christina Jolliffe

DAVID C. URIG Age: 60 Party: nonpartisan Education: bachelor’s degree in political science, Urig John Carroll University, 1982 Family: wife Marina Kazantseva, 10 years Job history: assistant manager, 7-Eleven Web site: None

ELECTION 2019

The Chronicle-Telegram

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

7

ELYRIA MAYOR Three are vying to assume the job of Elyria mayor: incumbent Democrat Holly Brinda, former mayor and independent Bill Grace and independent Frank Whitfield.

Why are you the best candidate for the position?

Brinda: I am running for my third term as mayor because I have the education, experience, skill set, desire and proven track record needed to continue to uplift my hometown. With over $400 million of public and private investment happening in our community, I would like the opportunity to build on the momentum my administration has helped create, and finish improvements we started that address infrastructure replacements, park renovations, business attraction and expansion, workforce development, downtown, Midway Mall and Chestnut Commons improvements, housing expansions and neighborhood improvements and many joint projects with our community partners.

Grace: I have the unique experience and proven track record of accomplishment from having served as Elyria mayor for the 12 years prior to the current mayor. My team’s superior level of achievement is made empirically clear by having the benefit of comparing it to the eight years that have followed. I’ve shown that I know how to assemble the right teams to initiate and complete complex community projects. I have the experience, enthusiasm and drive that makes me uniquely qualified for this moment to partner with the residents of Elyria to guide our community to a thriving future.

Whitfield: I am the best candidate because I have the skills and experience to manage personnel, multimillion dollar budgets, key relationships with stakeholders, contracts and strategy as well as how to make the most of limited resources. My education has equipped me to understand the business needs of the 21st century. As a lifelong resident raising my family in Elyria, I have a huge stake in the success of this city.

Being raised in Elyria by parents that worked two to three jobs to make ends meet, I understand the struggle of everyday Elyrians and will bring that work ethic to City Hall.

HOLLY BRINDA Age: 61 Party: Democrat Education: Elyria High School, 1976; bachelor’s from The Ohio State University, 1980; graduate certificate, Cleveland State University, 2002; master’s, Cleveland State University, 2001 Family: husband Greg; four children Job history: Transitional Housing, director of development; West Side Ecumenical Ministry, vice president of Advancement;

Brinda

Applewood Centers, vice president of fund development; Hattie Larlham Family of Agencies, director of development; Resource Solutions Network, principal consultant, The Midwest/Northeast; Cleveland State University, director of

development, operations & university relations, adjunct faculty; Elyria Schools, director of development & community services Website: www.brindaformayor.com

WILLIAM ‘BILL’ GRACE Age: 55 Party: independent Education: Lorain County Community College, associates, 1985; Tiffin University, bachelor’s, Spring 2020 Family: single, no children

Grace

Job history: senior consultant, TPI Efficiency

FRANK WHITFIELD Age: 32 Party: independent Education: Elyria High School; associate’s from Lorain County Community College; bachelor’s from Cleveland State University; executive MBA from Case Western Reserve University Family: wife Kaleena; three daughters

Whitfield

Job history: president and CEO, Lorain County Urban League; foundation fellow, Nord Family Foundation; program manager, Family Garden Initiative; computer/digital literacy instructor, Lorain County Community College; youth development specialist, Boys and Girls Club of Lorain County; classroom lead, Save Our Children

Website: www.frankwhitfield.com

What is the biggest challenge facing the city and how would you address it?

Brinda: The biggest challenge Elyria faces is an unfunded mandate by the United States Environmental Protection Agency that requires Elyria to modernize and separate our antiquated sanitary and storm water sewers at a projected additional cost of $200 million, above the $200 million of improvements already made. The city wants to comply and insure health and safety, but in an affordable way. As mayor, I am working with the Ohio Mayors Alliance and the United States Conference of Mayors to lobby USEPA to allow Elyria to comply using an integrated planning approach that can lower the cost, instead of a rigid 1986 consent decree.

Grace: The biggest challenge facing Elyria is that it is in an overall state of decline. This is evident by increasing rates of poverty, housing values that lag behind and crime rates that are higher than neighboring communities.

Among the consequences is that we are witnessing an unprecedented volume of families and major corporations who are leaving for neighboring communities.

To reverse this decline, we must invest heavily in quality of life amenities for our community. It must be of a magnitude to launch a new economic era for Elyria. I can provide a workable plan that can rally Elyria residents to identify the appropriate investments and the means to accomplish it.

Whitfield: Elyria’s challenges center around culture and econ-

omy. My 2025 x 2025 plan will create 2,025 jobs by the year 2025.

We will build a strong system for entrepreneurs to start their business in Elyria, attract employers through investing in Elyrians getting 21st century skills, and grow the current businesses in Elyria with innovative programs. When

we build our economy, we won’t burden the taxpayer with additional taxes just to maintain the city. When we build an inclusive culture, we all prosper. Elyria will work for families, those seeking second chances, youth and our businesses.

— Laina Yost

8

ELECTION 2019

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

The Chronicle-Telegram

ELYRIA LAW DIRECTOR Two will face each other in the race for Elyria law director: Honey Howard and Amanda Deery. Deery is the incumbent after being appointed to replace Law Director Scott Serazin after he stepped down from the job earlier this year.

What makes you the best candidate for this position?

Deery: I have 15-plus years of full-time, public law experience, including seven-plus years as an assistant Lorain County prosecutor. I have firsthand experience managing the daily operations of the Elyria Law Director’s Office, supervising staff and collaborating with administration and department heads, and maintaining a department budget. I possess the competence necessary to carry out all aspects of the Law Director’s responsibilities. I am skilled in preparing contracts, Council legislation and ballot language. I have handled civil and appellate cases and prosecuted misdemeanor and felony-level offenses, from minor traffic violations to violent crimes. I understand our community’s needs, challenges and potential.

Howard: I have the right experience to best serve Elyria in both criminal and noncriminal duties. For 23 years, I prosecuted criminal cases, handled civil matters and advised City Council and public boards. My first cases were in the Common Pleas Court representing criminal defendants during

AMANDA DEERY Age: 41 Party: Democrat Education: Elyria High School, 1996; bachelor’s degree from The Ohio State University, 2000; juris doctor from Boston College Law School, 2003 Family: husband Christopher Job history: assistant prosecuting attorney, Lorain County Prosecutor’s Office (2004 to 2011); assistant law director/ prosecutor (2012 to 2016), chief of staff (2016 to 2019), law director (July 2019 to present), Elyria Law Director’s Office

Deery

HONEY HOWARD Age: 75 Party: independent Education: bachelor’s from NYU; juris doctor from Howard University Law School Family: grandson Josiah Job history: attorney in John A. Howard’s Law Firm; arbitrator for U.S. Steelworkers and U.S. Steel; magistrate for Lorain County Common Pleas Court, Judge Henry Webber; assistant law director and prosecutor for city of Elyria

preliminary hearings and trials. As an arbitrator I decided union contract disputes between U.S. Steelworkers and U.S. Steel before serving as a magistrate for four years.

Finally, I was the assistant law director in charge of the city’s successful collections of

Howard

fines and costs.

What is the biggest challenge facing the city and how would you address it?

Deery: The opioid epidemic, which affects every facet of Elyria. Many Elyria

Municipal Court cases, from shoplifting to domestic violence charges, are drug-connected, police and fire personnel are swamped with overdose calls; addiction rips families apart, and employers struggle to hire personnel capable of passing drug screens. I will continue to collaborate with Elyria Municipal Court on initiatives such as Recovery Court and with the Police Department to secure grants and continue to advise Council regarding law enforcement spending and legislation, as well as the class action opioid lawsuit in which Elyria is a plaintiff, as we unceasingly fight this battle.

Howard: Loss of the people’s trust in government to spend their money to solve problems. The law director has the responsibility to advise City Council and the finance director and I would make sure every dollar is spent to meet the genuine needs of our taxpayers. I would stop paying outrageous fees to outside lawyers and have my staff work-up the cases. I would never give huge raises like the $10,000 added to Amanda Deery’s $65,000 salary during the city’s financial crisis that resulted in Issue 6.

Finally, I would restart my successful debts collections program to increase Elyria’s bank accounts.

— Laina Yost

ELYRIA MUNICIPAL COURT JUDGE Appointed to the bench in January 2018 to serve out an unexpired term, incumbent Elyria Municipal Judge Robert White is facing a challenge this November from Elyria attorney Paul St. Marie. The full term expires in 2022. Neither White, a Republican, nor St. Marie, a Democrat, faced a challenge in the May primary.

What makes you the best candidate for the position?

St. Marie: My experience makes me the best candidate to be the next Elyria Municipal Court judge. After graduating from Cleveland Marshall College of Law in 1981, I began my legal career as an assistant prosecutor with the city of Elyria. I served in this capacity for two and a half years before entering private practice. For the past 36 years, I have represented private citizens in the Elyria Municipal Court on a variety of civil and criminal matters. During that time, I have represented over 1,500 clients before the court.

White: I’ve earned a reputation as a firm, but fair judge and made improvements to the court, including: the first municipal drug court in Lorain County; a driving under suspension program; a new criminal case management system; a document management system to create and archive documents; and helped eliminate the backlog of civil default cases. I have more than 25 years experience representing individuals, businesses and public entities as counsel and in the litigation of complex cases. I served three terms as Carlisle Township trustee and on many other public and non-profit boards across

Lorain County. These experiences provided me a broad foundation to serve as judge.

What is the biggest challenge facing the court?

St. Marie: I believe that dealing with the opioid crisis is still the biggest immediate challenge. A solution to this problem requires a multifaceted approach ... A treatment in lieu of conviction program has been available for years, allowing for persons whose crimes are caused in whole or in part by drug addiction to seek treatment ... The court currently has a backlog of civil casess making is difficult for citizens to obtain justice. I will seek to streamline the process for resolving civil cases ... Rather than rely on additional tax dollars, the court needs to focus on the collection of court costs and fines.

White: Whether the charges are theft, assault, domestic violence, OVI, or another type of offense, well over 50 percent of our cases have drugs and/or alcohol as an underlying cause. We cannot incarcerate our way out of this problem. We must continue to battle it by establishing innovative programs such as the drug recovery court, that requires a strong commitment from defendants, intense weekly supervision from the court and treatment providers, as well as punishment when appropriate. We must also incorporate best practices from business to more economically and efficiently manage court operations.

— Dave O’Brien

PAUL ST. MARIE Age: 64 Party: Democrat Education: Cleveland-Marshall College of Law, Bowling Green State University, Elyria Catholic High School Family: wife Maureen; daughters Melanie and Sarah, son Stephen; grandson Ben Job history: assistant prosecutor, city of Elyria, St. Marie 1981-83; private practice, St. Marie Law Firm, 1983 to present Website: www.facebook.com/stmarieforjudge

ROBERT WHITE Age: 60 Party: Republican Education: Cleveland-Marshall College of Law, Cleveland State University, Lorain County Community College, Oberlin High School Family: wife Anita; sons J.R. and Chris, daughter Lauren; grandchildren Parker and Lucy Job history: incumbent (appointed) judge, Elyria Municipal Court, 2018; acting judge, White Elyria Municipal Court, 2016-2018; shareholder, Fauver Co. LPA, 2006-18; partner, Lessing, White & Roig, 1996-2006; associate attorney, Seeley, Savidge & Aussem Co., 1991-96; Carlisle Township trustee, 2004-15 Website: www.facebook.com/keepjudgerobertwhite

ELECTION 2019

The Chronicle-Telegram

ELYRIA COUNCIL AT-LARGE Five people are running for four open Elyria Council at-large seats.

Incumbents Jack Baird, Tom Callahan and Victor Stewart are looking to remain, while 4th Ward Councilman Phil Tollett is hoping to make the jump over to the at-large role.

Republican Jeff Baxter is looking to join Council in his first elected position.

What makes you the best candidate?

Baird: My experience as a member of City Council for 33 years uniquely qualifies me to continue serving Elyria as an at-large member. My 22 years of local banking and business employment provide me with a firm understanding of our business community. And my involvement with many local nonprofit organizations (YMCA, Boy Scouts, Historical Society, Public Library, etc.) gives me an in-depth perspective into many aspects of the city and its citizens.

Baxter: I have a background in solving million dollar problems.

Being a middle manager in Corporate America has prepared me well for City Council. I will fit into Council and be a valuable addition to the team.

Callahan: To be an effective member of City Council, I will ask questions, study the issues, listen, learn and respect differing opinions. That approach will allow me to make decisions based on facts, not emotions.

Stewart: I’ve proven myself as a leader on City Council, currently serving in my 14th year and 12 years as finance chairman. I serve on the Community Investment Corporation Committee and Neighborhood Stabilization Committee in which both committees encourage growth and development within the city. I have the experience, knowledge and the leadership that is needed moving our city forward.

I’ve represented the people of our city calling for fiscal responsibility, open and accountable government and safety for our families. I will continue to work hard for the residents of our city.

Tollett: Enthusiasm, research and understanding that I am a public servant. You must check your ego at the door. I ask questions when I don’t know, and voice my opinion when I do, always keeping in mind what is it that affects my constituents the most. I am a great listener, and have developed much more patience over time. Because

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

JOHN ‘JACK’ BAIRD

of my 12 years on Civil Service, I have a deep seeded knowledge of our safety forces, whom we must keep strong.

What is the biggest challenge facing the city and how would you address it?

Baird: Finances are always a primary concern for any municipality — they make everything else possible. Because we have been prudent in the past, the city is presently in a good financial position.

But that can be changed quickly, by forces beyond our control, so we must always be ready to react and respond. We should continue spending carefully, and do everything possible to contain the cost of all city functions. To increase revenue, we need to work diligently to move economic development forward because that will create more and better jobs for Elyrians.

Baxter: The biggest challenge in Elyria is there is a poor partnership between the city of Elyria, major employers, small employers, Elyria Schools, LCCC, Lorain County officials, local nonprofits, churches and other interested parties. These relationships are seemingly fractured and faltering. City Council needs members who will provide critical leadership that is visible to the community while working with each group to bring these groups together and build a new vision for Elyria. I will work toward this goal.

Callahan: As a city we must live

Age: 71 Party: Republican Education: Elyria Schools; Ashland University, bachelor’s of science in business administration Family: wife Mitzi; three daughters Baird Job history: assistant manager, Central National Bank of Cleveland; vice president of marketing, Lorain County Bank; vice president and manager, Oberlin office; sales representative, Ohio Lottery Commission; 3rd Ward Elyria councilman, five years; at-large Elyria councilman, 28 years

JEFF BAXTER Age: 66 Party: Republican Education: Institute of Computer Management Family: wife Joanne; five children; eight grandchildren; two great-grandchildren Job history: Retired, IT manager for Macy’s Department Stores

within our means and stretch each and every dollar. It is critical that we continue to explore and position ourselves to apply for state and federal grant funding for the improvement of our city streets, our parks and public safety.

Job history: Sales representative for the Ohio Lottery Commission; previously worked for Applied Industrial Technologies as an account manager for 28 years; current member Elyria City Council

VICTOR STEWART Age: 53 Party: Democrat Education: Elyria Catholic, 1984; attended Lorain County Community College Family: wife Lynette; three sons; one granddaughter Job history: Bramhall Engineering & Surveying Co.

Stewart

PHIL TOLLETT Baxter

TOM CALLAHAN Age: 60 Party: Democrat Education: Elyria Catholic High School; attended Lorain County Community College Family: daughter Jennie

9

Callahan

Age: 56 Party: Democrat Education: Elyria Catholic High School; Baldwin Wallace College Family: wife Kathleen; two children Job history: director of purchasing, The Canteen/ Cuyahoga Group, 13 years

Stewart: As a city, we are faced with many challenges. Economic development, job creation, income tax revenues, infrastructure, residential street improvements and safety for our families. We continually are competing with our neigh-

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Tollett

boring communities. With the passage of Issue 6, we’ve been able to address a lot of these concerns and we owe a big thanks to our residents for believing and trusting in us with their tax dollars.

See ELYRIA, 12

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Tuesday, October 22, 2019

ELECTION 2019

The Chronicle-Telegram

ELYRIA COUNCIL 3RD WARD In Elyria’s 3rd Ward, incumbent Democrat Mark Jessie is facing Republican Garry Gibbs, who was a councilman for 20 years until Jessie unseated him six years ago.

What makes you the best candidate for this position?

Gibbs: Forty years successful business, 20 years experience on Elyria City Council, serving on all committees. The ability to listen respectfully and weigh differing opinions. A determination to look at what’s best for the neighborhood of the 3rd Ward.

The willingness to devote time and being accessible.

Not afraid to speak up and say “no” for excessive use of expenses for public expenditures and be an effective representative for fiscal and financial projects.

Jessie: I want to stay connected to my constituents. Twice I have walked most of the 3rd Ward. It is important for residents to know who is representing them and to hear their concerns. I respond quickly to calls and also follow up to make sure the city did everything possible to address their issues. I work extremely hard initiating projects and seeing them through to completion. The best example is working with my Council colleagues and dozens of concerned citizens to pass Issue 6 in 2016. We are seeing enormous improvements in streets, city parks and police equipment and personnel.

What is the biggest challenge facing the city and how would you address it?

Gibbs: Mixed-use development of retail and

residential at Chestnut Commons. Traffic is heavy, sometimes gridlocked and only getting worse. When elected my solution is to finance and implement the following: 1) Purchase of video detection camera at the intersection, instead of the current timers. This will allow traffic signals to rely on sensors to detect when vehicles are present. When vehicles arrive and stack at those intersections, a sensor will detect it and cycle the lights to push traffic thru at the intersection of Route 57 and Chestnut Commons. 2) Relocate the electrical pole on the corner of Dewhurst Road and Chestnut Ridge, extending the turning lane to Dewhurst Road, allowing traffic to flow with an extended lane eastbound, so vehicles can turn south toward Route 10 on a red light.

Jessie: Addressing the Midway Mall area, continuing to revive our downtown, and making every effort to attract new businesses, both large and small. The biggest challenge in my ward is the traffic congestion at Chestnut Commons. A comprehensive traffic study commissioned by the developer, the city of Elyria and the Ohio Department of Transportation is examining options for the future of that intersection. The city and my Council colleagues are actively engaged on all of these issues. It is of the greatest importance to me that we work together in collaboration to solve all of the challenges we currently face.

— Laina Yost

GARRY GIBBS

Gibbs

Age: 61 Party: Republican Education: Elyria High School, 1975; The University of Toledo, 1979 Family: Wife Barb; two children Job history: The GRA Group, Inc, 29 years; Elyria councilman, 20 years; Elyria Council Committees: Community Development, Finance, Rules, Utilities, Safety & Environment, Strategic Planning

MARK JESSIE Age: 62 Party: Democrat Education: bachelor’s from Kent State University, 1977; master’s from Kent State University, 1979; doctorate from University of Oklahoma, 1985 Family: wife Jackie; four children; three grandchildren Jessie Job history: choral director, Elyria High School; 1991-2014; choral director, Admiral King High School: 1989-1991, assistant professor and director of choral activities, Clemson University: 1986-1989; instructor of music, The University of Georgia: 1984-1986; instructor of music and coordinator for the Music Division, Lakeland College: 1979-1982. choral director, Lorain County Community College: 2017-present; choral director, First United Methodist Church; 1996-present; music teacher, Lake Ridge Academy: 2014-2018; Councilman for Ward 3, city of Elyria: 2014-present

ELYRIA COUNCIL 7TH WARD Democratic incumbent Jack Cerra will face off against Libertarian Brandon Bobbitt for the 7th Ward seat on Elyria City Council.

Mall, and Chestnut Commons. As an experienced Elyria councilman, I am committed to Elyria’s continued forward motion.

What makes you the best candidate for this position?

Bobbitt: I have been immensely blessed to have the opportunity to gain professional experience as a registered nurse and with nonprofit organizations.

Through this, I have had the unique opportunity at a young age to gain experience in managing budgets, individuals, solving complex health care and social problems, and most importantly, I have learned the value of active listening and collaboration. These opportunities have taught me the importance of hard work, integrity, diversity, and excellence. I plan to bring these values and experience to Council to increase transparency, community development, and sound budgeting; while being a voice for all residents.

Cerra: As a member of the team that helped craft and pass Issue 6, which brought major improvements to Elyria’s streets, parks, safety and economic development, I am proud to see the reinvestment of millions of dollars into our city by businesses such as Ridge Tool, Multilink, Lear Romec, BASF and Nelson Stud. I believe Issue 6 has aided in new businesses coming to Elyria, such as Perry Fiberglass, Stanley Black and Decker, Amware and Johnny K’s and steady new redevelopment around downtown, Midway

What is the biggest challenge facing the city and how would you address it?

Bobbitt: Elyria’s economic and community development is at the forefront of many residents’ minds.

We have a great and proud community that should be dependent on input from all individuals and business owners alike. I plan to bring a fresh vision to Council by actively seeking input from the community, by broadcasting all public meetings, and having quarterly town hall meetings, in an attempt to make solutions a collaborative effort. Of course, development cannot effectively progress without sound budgeting. Residents can depend on me to be a good steward of their tax dollars while budgeting prudently.

Cerra: So many areas could be considered, among them would have to be continued economic development, communication and road rehabilitation.

I will continue to educate myself and openly work with administration and fellow Council members to make the best decisions possible for Elyria in regards to any issues brought before me. I will also continue to make myself available to all residents to discuss and most importantly listen to any concerns. Listening is a great tool.

— Laina Yost

BRANDON BOBBITT Age: 30 Party: Libertarian Education: Indiana University of Pennsylvania Family: Wife Taylor; one son

Bobbitt

Job history: registered Nurse, St. John’s Medical Center; director of nursing, Huntington Woods

JACK CERRA Age: 61 Party: Democrat Education: Elyria High School, 1977 Family: Wife Glenda; two children; two grandchildren

Cerra

Job history: Worked in or for Elyria-based companies for 45 years; service manager at John

Pais Auto, 30 years

The Chronicle-Telegram

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

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ELECTION 2019

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

GRAFTON COUNCIL Two candidates are seeking to fill one Grafton Village Council seat. Incumbent Richard Logue was appointed by Mayor David DiVencenzo in April after the death of Councilman John Lescher.

Logue is being challenged by Lisa Carter.

What makes you the best candidate for the position?

Logue: I have resided in Grafton since November of 1976; and feel I have a real understanding of how things operate in the village. I was appointed to my current position, as Ward 3 Councilman, in April 2019. Additionally, I have been on the Zoning Board and the Zoning Board of Appeals.

Carter: I am committed to progress while retaining our small town charm. Within my extensive professional/volunteer experience, I have had the opportunity to gain expertise in grant writing, union negotiations, public bidding, technology, new construction, contract negotiation and social programs. I am adamant about creating new partnerships with surrounding communities and organizations to support our residents. As I have visited the homes of people in Ward 3, some of their concerns were jobs with livable wages, a robust downtown and a solid infrastructure, flooding and supporting initiatives

that benefit working families, children and senior citizens. I will focus on these issues.

What is the biggest challenge facing the village and how would you address it?

Logue: As a small community, I feel one of the biggest issues for Grafton is drawing in more businesses to the area as well as continuing to support the ones we have. Plus, with families moving into the area, we need to make sure that we continue providing new and inviting areas, such as the Splash Pad and new playground at Willow Park.

Carter: The new state budget will be a problem.

Ohioans will pay 4 percent less in state income tax, but in return, a 10.5-cent increase in gasoline taxes per gallon will hurt us. Ninety percent of our working population drives 24.7 minutes to work each day. I will address this by working with legislators on its negative effects and how we can reduce local taxes. Our village has a 9.4 percent poverty rate, with 17 percent of those being children and 8 percent being senior citizens. I will address this by increasing economic opportunities for families and strengthening safety nets for our most vulnerable residents.

— Melissa Linebrink

ELYRIA

From 9

But economic growth and development stands out as the biggest challenge. I believe we need an economic development director who will promote our city, find grants and other opportunities which will encourage growth and development not only for our current businesses but attracting new ones and making Elyria a difference maker. We need to continue our partnership with Lorain County Community College and the opportunities they have for up and coming companies. Elyria has a lot to offer. We are a great community. Let’s keep it moving forward.

Tollett: Without question, it is the evolution of Elyria from a blue collar-only city, to a hybrid. We must make Elyria attractive to Millennials and Gen Z’ers, who want to live, work and enjoy entertainment in our community. We must have both white and blue collar jobs, great public and private schools, alternative homes and rentals, and our streets must be nice and safe. This involves infrastructure (5G), water and sewer upgrades (happening now), great updated schools and library (happening now) and supporting existing business with any needs. Showing residents how they can do things, not telling them why they can’t. Always being proactive, not reactive.

— Laina Yost

v

The Chronicle-Telegram

RICHARD F. LOGUE II Age: 71 Party: nonpartisan Education: Did not provide Family: wife Lisa; and children Tina, Rick and Sean Job history: retired in 2002 after 36 years as an air traffic controller at the Cleveland Center, located in Oberlin Website: None

Logue

LISA CARTER Age: 52 Party: nonpartisan Education: associate of arts, general studies (Lorain County Community College); bachelor of science, vocational and non-vocational business office education/business administration (Ashland University); master of science, curriculum and instruction/educational technology (Ashland University) Carter Family: daughter Alexandra and son Cameron Job history: 2019 to present — mild/moderate intervention specialist, Lorain Schools; 2016-2019 — training coach and instructor, vocational guidance services; 2015-2019 — teacher, Elyria Schools; 20142015 — principal intern/English language arts/intervention specialist, Summit Academy Lorain Secondary School; 2009-2013 — business administration/computer technologies teacher, Cleveland Heights/ University Heights City School District Website: https://www.facebook.com/LisaLCarterWard3

LORAIN MUNICIPAL CLERK OF COURTS Democrat and incumbent Ted Kalo is facing a challenge in the Lorain Municipal Clerk of Courts race from Republican Trina Smith.

A former Lorain County commissioner, Kalo resigned to take over the post formerly held by Lori Maiorana, who resigned Jan. 1 with a year remaining in her term. Smith was unopposed in the Republican primary in May. Calls to the phone number she provided to the Lorain County Board of Elections rang unanswered.

What makes you the best candidate for the position?

Kalo: My 14 years in government handling very large budgets, and the Clerk of Courts is about handling dollars. We make sure all notifications go out and we collect all dollars due. We handle garnishments and all the fines. Also, my private sector experience is managing a business and overseeing

employees and managing customer service.

What is the biggest challenge facing the clerk of courts office?

Kalo: We’re in the process of putting a new case management system in. The one the court had was a corrupted system and it didn’t work very well. That caused a lot of issues ... (we) got seven years of annual reports done and in getting those finished, found a significant difference in disbursements from the courts. There was a change in what was going to the city, the Ohio State Highway Patrol and the county. We’re in the process of trying to recover that and getting that money reallocated to the municipal court, to Lorain and to the State Highway Patrol.

— Dave O’Brien

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TED KALO Age: 57 Party: Democrat Education: attended Cleveland State University and Lorain County Community College, but did not graduate from either; Lorain Admiral King Kalo High School class of 1979 Family: wife Wendy; daughters Brittany, Leigha and Nicole, sons Bryan and Ted; and nine grandchildren Job history: incumbent (appointed) Lorain Municipal Clerk of Courts; Lorain County commissioner, 2005-18; owner, Ted’s Floor Coverings in Lorain, since 1996.

Website: www.facebook.com/ VoteTedKalo

TRINA SMITH Party: Republican

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ELECTION 2019

The Chronicle-Telegram

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

13

LORAIN MAYOR Democrat Jack Bradley, Republican Jessie Tower and write-in candidates William Bobel and Patricia Flowers are running for Lorain mayor.

The nomination process on the Democratic side was fraught with confusion following former Mayor Chase Ritenauer’s resignation after winning the May primary. After five of six candidates to replace his name on the ballot were disqualified and the other bowed out, Jack Bradley earned the nomination from the city’s Democratic Central Committee.

This is Bradley, Bobel and Flowers’ first foray into politics, but Tower ran against Ritenauer in 2015 and unsuccessfully sought the seat of then-Rep. Dan Ramos, D-Lorain, in 2016.

What makes you the best candidate for the position?

Bobel: I have the most experience in the business community and I have managed a successful business for 35 years. My major in college was business and Real Estate, I understand Budget, cost control and budgeting.

Bradley: I am concerned about the Lorain Schools since I am a lifelong resident and graduate of our schools as well as being a teacher in the city schools. I will do everything in my power to return the schools to local control and take an active role in bringing the mayor’s office into the schools.

Being a successful business and property owner, I will encourage other business owners to establish businesses in Lorain. Lorain will be open for business. I have already developed listening tours and meetings with citizens in their own neighborhoods and I will make sure our police and fire departments are adequately staffed and equipped. My parents taught me at a young age the value of hard work and that is what I intend to bring to the office of mayor.

Flowers: I am the best candidate for the following reasons: As the common “man” candidate in this race, I understand the challenges and disappointments of the citizens of Lorain because I am living it right along with them. I am neither a politician nor a politico, rather a person who wants to see Lorain thrive and it’s citizens once again proud of our home. Sometimes it takes a political outsider

JACK BRADLEY

and have practiced law for 24 years. My area of concentration is non-profit organizations, churches

Age: 70 Party: Democrat Education: Case Western Reserve University, bachelor of arts; Cleveland State University Cleveland Marshall College of Law, juris doctor Family: Wife Deborah; Bradley daughter Jaclyn Bradley Palmer; granddaughter Roma Palmer.

Job history: Lorain Schools fourth grade teacher for five years and attorney for 42 years Web site: http://www.jackbradleyforlorain.com

Age: 65

JESSIE TOWER

Education: majored in business

Age: 59 Party: Republican Education: Clearview High School; associate degree from Lorain County Community College; bachelor of business administration from Cleveland State University; master of Tower business administration from Baldwin-Wallace college; law degree from Capital University Law School Family: I am the oldest of 10 children of Bishop Peter Tower and Clara Tower. My grandfathers (now deceased) were U.S. military veterans. My sister (now deceased) was a U.S. military veteran.

My nephew currently serves in the U.S. military.

Job history: Served 30 years in state government.

I worked under six governors (two Democrats and four Republicans). When I served as section chief, I had leadership and management responsibilities for the Medicaid Nursing Home Audits & Reimbursement Program, which was a $2.1 billion program. In addition to section chief, I held other positions in state government, including chief auditor, bureau chief and assistant deputy director. I have my own law practice

to bring everyone in together.

Tower: I am a Certified Public Accountant and have 30 years experience in state government administration. While with the state, I served in leadership positions including chief auditor, section chief, bureau chief and assistant deputy director. I worked under six governors (two Democrats and four Republicans). As section chief, I had leadership and management responsibilities for the Medicaid Nursing Home Audits & Reimbursement Program, which was a $2.1 billion program.

I brought together stakeholders, (sometimes who had competing interests), to achieve common goals that were in the best interest of the state, and I will bring that experience to the city.

What is the biggest challenge facing Lorain and how would

and probate (i.e., wills and estates). Director of Tower Educational Learning Center. We offer preschool and afterschool programs for children ages 2 ½ through 14. I have been a licensed CPA in the state of Ohio for the past 24 years.

Website: www.jessietower.com

WILLIAM BOBEL Party: independent and real estate at Lorain Community College; Lorain Catholic; St Mary’s Grade School

Bobel

Family: Two daughters; two sons in law; two grandchildren.

Job history: Owner Bobel Electric and Mechanical Contractors, 1977 to Present; Ford Motor Co. Electrical Maintenance 1977 to 1997; Spam Master Gen Labor 1974 to 1977 Website: mayoralindplorain.com

PATRICIA FLOWERS Age: 58 Party: Democratic Education: Completing an MBA Job history: 32 years with the Air Force (both active duty and reserve) Website: pickflowers4mayor.com

you address it?

Bobel: The biggest challenge is our bond rating, we have a Baa Rating. This effects all of our financing from borrowing to selling bonds. For major infrastructure projects, we have to get the bond rating up to a AA1 so businesses will take a serious look at us and we can pursue major industry to locate to our city with confidence, we have to balance the budget; implement a cost Austerity program in each department, there would be no “sacred cows,” so to speak.

Bradley: The biggest challenge is our schools. Poor schools mean more crime and drug problems, an unacceptable dropout rate and diminished property values.

There must be a dialogue between the schools and the city. Working together, we will keep our

Flowers

students on the road to success.

Success in our schools will bring more people into our city. There is a positive momentum throughout

ELECT

PAID FOR BY FRIENDS OF JEFF BAXTER

our city and the resurgence of our downtown must continue. With the help of the Port Authority, better utilization of our Community Development Block Grant dollars, and the creation of a small business incubator, we will attract major employers to our city and create good paying jobs for our young people. Good schools, good jobs and a love of Lorain will propel us into the future.

Flowers: Economic growth.

Where we’d start is by taking advantage of the great waterfront that we have. Waterside attractions have always been popular, so it is my intent to make use of this feature by proposing a multipurpose entity that I’d call Black River Landing II that would encompass a boardwalk, an amusement park, shops, restaurants, convention centers and the like to draw diverse businesses to the city as well as community adjacent residents. It is a way to take some of abundant green space (parks) that Lorain has and turn it into a feature that will create a consistent and viable tax base and revenue stream that would assist with unburdening the residents of Lorain who are bearing the costs of all improvements at this time as well as being great for school funding purposes.

Tower: Public services. The water bills are too high, and the point of sale ordinance stops senior citizens from selling their homes. I will audit the Water Department and will repeal the point of sale ordinance.

— Carissa Woytach

14

ELECTION 2019

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

The Chronicle-Telegram

LORAIN 4TH WARD COUNCIL Incumbent independent councilman Greg Argenti will face Democrat Dan Nutt to represent Ward 4 on Nov. 5. Argenti has represented the ward since 2014. This is Nutt’s first foray into politics.

What makes you the best candidate for the position?

Argenti: Experience and leadership.

Regardless of the results of Lorain’s mayoral election, we will have a neophyte in that position, as well as four new members of Council. I will help provide stability and leadership during this period of adjustment.

As an example, I will seek to change Lorain from a statutory (heavily state controlled) to a charter (more local control and citizen involved) form of government. Of Ohio’s 15 largest and most successful cities, only Lorain, Parma and Canton remain statutory cities. The first step of this process is to place the question of whether or not a charter commission should be formed on the ballot, either by a two-thirds majority vote of Council or a petition signed by 10 percent of registered voters.

Nutt: I feel that I am the best candidate for the position as my drive and dedication have no limit. When I commit myself to something, I give it everything I have and I see it thought all the way to the end. I feel that this will help on a Council level as I can

term debt and improve our bond rating.

Wasteful programs like point of sale should be eliminated. Homeowners may pass the Age: 65 exterior-only inspection by the city, only to Party: independent Education: Lorain Catholic High School, Lorain County Community fail a subsequent inspection conducted by College, University of Dayton a professional hired by the seller or buyer.

Family: father Bill Argenti (deceased); mother Enis Argenti; sons Even after a substantial fee increase, this proDominic and Santino gram does not pay for itself. We must begin Job history: U.S. Department of Labor, Employment Opportunity to rebuild Lorain’s reserve (emergency) fund.

Pilot Project in Dayton; Montgomery County Juvenile Court System Argenti The most systematic and efficient method in Dayton; Owner of Argenti Auto Body in Lorain to accomplish this is to mandate that every Website: www.reelectgregargenti4thwardcouncil.com department include one-quarter or possibly one-half of 1 percent of their annual budDAN NUTT get request in this fund as part of the city’s Age: 36 annual budget.

Party: Democrat Nutt: I feel that the biggest challenge Education: graduated from Marion L. Steele High School; facing the city of Lorain is funding, or lack completed an associate of arts and associate of business from thereof. Lorain in its hey-day was the pinLorain County Community College. nacle of success and growth. Since then, the Family: Wife Khristal; two children, Maximus, 7, and Brinley, 2 Job history: I own a couple of small businesses including city has not done enough to correct for the D’Tutanelli’s Pizza which has two locations, a custom furniture loss of businesses and industries over the Nutt business in Lorain and I am a real estate investor in and around the years. If we focus our resources on attracting city of Lorain. I also have a professional background in real estate. new — and retaining current — businesses, Website: www.facebook.com/VoteDanNutt the income from tax revenue and employment taxes that will generated will help ease come up with new and fresh ideas and a and responsibly. financial burdens and many of the other plan to get them executed while keeping the current funding issues that we have. This What are the biggest challenges faccity of Lorain’s best interest in mind. With will not only help all departments such as the business background that I have, I feel ing Lorain and how would you address police, fire, streets and utilities but help keep that financial responsibility is of the utmost them? the cost that is put on the citizens in form of Argenti: Inefficiency and excessive spend- taxes down as well. importance for a city government and I plan — Carissa Woytach to help the city of Lorain use its funds wisely ing. We must control spending, reduce long-

GREG ARGENTI

LORAIN 8TH WARD COUNCIL Incumbent Democrat Joshua Thornsberry will face Republican Denver Casto for the city’s 8th Ward. Casto ran in 2017 against Thornsberry, who has represented the ward since 2013.

What makes you the best candidate for the position?

Casto: I have been a resident of the 8th Ward for 37 years and have attended Council meetings from 1998 as well as many Building and Zoning Board meetings. I have watched the development of this ward during this time at a very high price to current residents and far too many issues left unaddressed to this day. I have the knowledge of promises made to the residents but no more than lip service with current and past administrations and councilpersons failing to put the best interests or these residents first. We must put together a committee consisting of residents, business persons and financial personnel to bring businesses to Lorain who are committed to Lorain and not the take the money and run as we have seen ... I believe to ask the residents of the 8th Ward for their vote I must be accountable to the ward residents and their concerns above all.

Thornsberry: I am the best candidate to remain as 8th Ward councilman because

fight for our fair share of roadwork dollars.

DENVER CASTO Age: 68 Party: Republican Education: Parkersburg High School Graduate in Parkersburg, West Virginia; Completed Hewitt-Jackson Tax; Ford Motor Co. training for ISO and Government Audits Family: Married to my wife Margaret Casto for 34 years, and together we have 13 children, many grandchildren and great grandchildren. I as well have a sister and two brothers.

Job history: Retired from Ford Motor Co. after 43.4 years; security guard with Republic Steel Website: dcasto51@gmail.com

Casto

JOSHUA THORNSBERRY Age: 38 Party: Democrat Education: master’s in education from Bowling Green State University; bachelor’s in social studies from Cleveland State University Family: Wife, Jeni; son, Hunter, 11; son Jace, 1 Job history: Teacher at Lakewood Schools

of the numerous achievements I have accomplished over the past six years. Most recently I fought to allow the public to speak at all Council meetings. I also fought to end health care for part-time Council members, thus saving the taxpayers over

Thornsberry

$120,000 per year. I also voted to stop a dangerous park levy from going to the ballot that would have wasted taxpayer money.

If elected, I will continue to fight to protect property values, bring jobs and businesses to Lorain, hold developers accountable, and

What is the biggest challenge facing Lorain and how would you address it?

Casto: The biggest challenge I see is reuniting the residents, administration and City Council as one with trust, faith and desire to work together to build a new and better Lorain without malice, fear and preferential treatment to any developer, city practices and the thug-like tactics many residents too often feel. There are no limits to what the residents, administration and Council can achieve when we work as one for the betterment of Lorain, also known as the The International City.

Thornsberry: I believe the biggest challenge facing the city of Lorain is loss of jobs and tax base. As 8th ward councilman, I have been very proactive in meeting with business leaders and developers to bring jobs and growth to Lorain. One of the best examples of this is Lorain landing the new Meijer store at the site of the former Super K-Mart. By proactively working with the administration, we were able to land Meijer, not only preventing an eye-sore from developing in the ward but also bringing hundreds of jobs to our city.

This is the type of leadership I will continue to bring to the ward.

— Carissa Woytach

ELECTION 2019

The Chronicle-Telegram

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

15

NORTH RIDGEVILLE MAYOR With Mayor G. David Gillock retiring at the end of the year, two candidates are vying to replace him. Republican Council President Kevin Corcoran is up against Democrat Paul Wolanski in a race that will determine which man will lead the city through a continued period of growth.

What makes you the best candidate for the position?

Corcoran: My blend of government and business experience, education and professionalism makes me the best candidate.

My efforts so far have included bringing WOW Cable, Riddell, University Hospitals and Danbury Senior Living to our city.

These efforts have saved families hundreds of dollars per year in cable costs, brought hundreds of jobs and increased the tax base of the city. I will bring my ideas and tireless work ethic to the mayor position and work to improve the economic tax base of our community, protect our citizens and improve the lives of those who visit, work and live in North Ridgeville.

Wolanski: We have had the same chronic problems in North Ridgeville for the last decade. 1. Lack of business. 2. Roads in disrepair. 3. Residential flooding. While my opponent has over 10 years experience in local government, and several board mem-

Corcoran: My plan is to focus on three main areas that challenge our city - ecoAge: 50 nomic growth, safety and roads. I have been Party: Republican fortunate to bring employers and jobs to our Education: juris doctor, Cleveland Marshall College of Law; city and I am working with professionals to bachelors of science in finance, University of Scranton bring new ideas forward. We are one of the Family: wife Lauren; three children Job history: city of North Ridgeville, Council president/ Council safest cities in Ohio and I will continue my at-large 2008-present; Bob Schmitt Homes Inc., attorney, work with our safety forces to provide the Corcoran 2000-present; Kevin Corcoran & Associates Co. LPA, attorney, protection that we expect. I led the push to 1999-present increase funding of our neighborhood road Website: electkevincorcoran.com repair budget and I will continue to look for opportunities to extend the life of our roads.

PAUL WOLANSKI Wolanski: Lack of business is the biggest Age: 52 Party: Democrat concern we have in North Ridgeville. We Education: bachelor’s degree from Bowling Green State spend our money in our border cities. Their University, major in psychology, minor in economics businesses are thriving. Our businesses are Family: married 16 years to wife Elizabeth; two children attend dwindling. Then we do not have the business North Ridgeville Schools Wolanski revenue to fix our roads, or fix our flooding, Job history: corporate recruiter, Service adviser Chevrolet/ Oldsmobile, interim service manager. or have roadside leaf collection, or have a Website: paulwolanski.com community recreation center. On Day No. 1 as mayor, I will recruit restaurants and retail berships and accolades, he has done little to these issues. My opponent has already had to fill eyesore vacancies and add new induseliminate these issues. People in the com- his chance. try to help support our deficient tax base and munity feel it time for a change. We need a prop up our local budget. goal-oriented leader, with creative ideas to What is the biggest challenge facing — Dylan Reynolds doggedly focus and attack and eliminate the city and how would you address it?

KEVIN CORCORAN

NORTH RIDGEVILLE 2ND WARD COUNCIL In North Ridgeville’s 2nd Ward, incumbent Democrat Dennis Boose is challenged by Republican Tracie Saunders, who promises to be the voice of the ward’s people.

income in our ward. I give my word to the people of Ward 2 that I will fight to keep their money in Ward 2. It is time for a change and I am committed to the community in Ward 2.

What makes you the best candidate for the position?

Boose: I have a proven record in making sure we are fiscally responsible and forward thinking at the same time. I have been deeply involved in our city for many years in a number of leadership capacities in government and community organizations. As an active participant in all of these organizations, I have been able to keep abreast of a variety of “quality of life” issues within our city, which helps me make qualified and informed decisions as a member of Council. In addition, the details of my involvement in these organizations have proven that I am someone that “gets things done.” I am an effective listener and take my responsibility of being an advocate for our residents seriously.

Saunders: I speak from the heart and am willing to work for my ward. These are friends, families, hard workers and people that want their voices to be heard. People are tired of watching their elected officials not acting in their best interest. This is why I spoke up, to be the voice of the people that want cell phone connectivity in our ward. It is for the safety and welfare of all of us. My opponent fought against it and I had to speak up. Unfortunately, we lost that

What is the biggest challenge facing the city and how would you address it?

Boose: Maintaining and improving the infrastructure in our neighborhoods is essential. As Ward 2 Councilman, I have made sure that Ward 2 receives priority funding in regards to neighborhood street, sewer, and water main improvements, and I will continue to do so. We need to continue to provide a greater focus in improving and expanding our storm water management capabilities, which can be accomplished through alternative funding sources including grants. These improvements will help attract new businesses to locate within our city, as well as encourage the expansion of existing businesses.

Saunders: Looking at the broader picture of the entire city, we need to finish Center Ridge Road.

People are frustrated. I hear it when I am walking and talking with residents. We need to finish the road and welcome small business with open arms. I also support mayoral candidate Kevin Corcoran’s introduction of legislation to add a director of economic development for 2020.

— Dylan Reynolds

DENNIS BOOSE Age: 64 Party: Democrat Education: attended Bowling Green State University, majored in speech communication Family: married to Lisa for 36 years with two grown children Job history: 41 years in the financial services

Boose

industry, currently the vice president and manager of the Business Banking Division at Dollar Bank Website: fb.me/dennisjboose

TRACIE SAUNDERS Age: 41 Party: Republican Education: Elyria West graduate Family: married 19 years; two children Job history: community volunteering and leadership Website: none

Saunders

16

ELECTION 2019

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

The Chronicle-Telegram

NORTH RIDGEVILLE 3RD WARD Incumbent Republican Bruce Abens faces Bob Jaeckin, the chairman of the North Ridgeville Democratic Party, to represent the 3rd Ward.

What makes you the best candidate for the position?

Abens: During my tenure as the 3rd Ward Council member I have been able to gain important positions within Council. I am the president pro-tem, Council liaison to the Planning Commission, Building & Lands Committee chairman, Council representative to the Abatement Board, and committee member to the Finance Committee. All these positions add up to valuable experience and influence which better serves the 3rd Ward.

Jaeckin: The seven members of the North Ridgeville City Council should act as a team, each contributing based on his/her talents. I am a retired CPA who has taught college level courses in municipal accounting and reporting. I was also a designated industry expert in governmental accounting and auditing while working for Deloitte, one of the largest public accounting firms in the world. As such, I believe I can contribute to the better understanding of financial matters for the current Council. With this better understanding should come more informed, timely decisions on the part of our legislative body.

What is the biggest challenge facing the city and how would you address it?

Abens: The city’s growth is the biggest challenge facing North Ridgeville. It is a challenge rather than a problem. This growth puts strains on the city’s infrastructure, services and institutions. To keep taxes at present levels, the city must encourage expansion of existing businesses and attract new businesses with tax incentives and marketing assistance. Encourage the development of the Center Ridge/Avon Belden corridor as the business center for North Ridgeville. However, the city should continue to encourage present farming operations through incentives as well.

Jaeckin: We are a city with the fastest growth rate in Northeast Ohio, but with a tax base that is largely residential. We must attract new businesses to North Ridgeville to share in, and help pay for, this record growth. Such new businesses also will help provide more shopping opportunities for our residents, who now must oftentimes venture to surrounding cities. An economic development director would be a big help in this regard. I would be ready to assist a director in attracting these new enterprises with my personal involvement, as well as promoting creative launching and financing incentives.

— Dylan Reynolds

BRUCE ABENS Age: 68 Party: Republican Education: bachelor’s degree from Cleveland State University, Dale Carnegie, Wood Badge (C 21-98) Family: married 46 years; three sons; six grandchildren Job history: retired, 30 years in the commercial modular building industry Website: Facebook page “Re-elect Bruce Abens North Ridgeville Ward 3 Councilman”

Abens

BOB JAECKIN Age: 71 Party: Democrat Education: graduate of St. Edward High School; John Carroll and Cleveland State University, bachelor’s degree in accounting, master’s in business administration, concentration in finance Family: married to Jan; four children; 10 grandchildren Job history: CFO/Controller of several large Jaeckin corporations and nonprofits, Taught college course for several years in municipal accounting and reporting; chairman, North Ridgeville Democratic Party, Lorain County Democratic Central Committee Website: facebook.com/jaeckinforcouncil

NORTH RIDGEVILLE 4TH WARD COUNCIL Incumbent Democrat Bob Chapek is challenged by Republican business owner Clifford Winkel in the city’s 4th Ward.

our departments. With the community growing at the rapid rate it is, our departments are sorely pressed for manpower, resources and operating space. Decisions will be made about building new spaces for our variWhat makes you the best candidate for the posi- ous departments or perhaps remodeling buildings we tion? already have to suit their needs. Seeking solutions to Chapek: During the 3 and 3/4 years as 4th Ward those problems without creating additional financial Councilman I have had well over 22 streets repaved burdens on our residents would be a top priority. within the small street repair budget. I am on the Board of Drainage and Flood Control, which has What is the biggest challenge facing the city and reduced the flooding in Ward 4 and continue to work how would you address it? to reduce the problem. Chair the Streets, Sidewalks Chapek: The biggest issue for the city is getting new and Bridges Committee that reviews the needs for business to relocate to North Ridgeville to get a better street and sidewalk repairs and reviews bridges contax base and help reduce tax burden on the residents. ditions. On the Buildings & Lands Committee that Winkel: My experience in business and construcreviews the usage of lands and forwards recommention makes me the best candidate. Sanitary sewers, dations to Council. On the Administrative Committee stormwater, road issues and traffic problems in Ward that reviews the needs of the departments and needs 4 will need to be solved in the construction arena. My for additional personnel and forwards recommenunderstanding of the construction industry will be an dations to Council. On the Senior Citizens Advisory asset in the decisions being made in the upcoming Board. I attend all the budget meetings to monitor the cities appropriations and try to make constructive years. We have empty commercial buildings in Ward 4. Showcasing North Ridgeville to possible businesses comments. I have managed business facilities that had over $100 million in sales and was responsible for will be something started day one. I would also reach out to existing businesses to build a relationship and spending and profitability.

Winkel: In North Ridgeville, we will have many deci- help identify their needs and concerns.

— Dylan Reynolds sions to make in the coming years regarding many of

CARLISLE From 2

What is the biggest challenge facing the fiscal office/township and how would you address it?

Fallon: One of the biggest challenges as fiscal officer has been to figure out ways to make big things happen with a small budget. For instance, with the use of financing, we have been able to replace vehicles, machinery and equipment for our Road Department required to provide services to the residents. The cost of

BOB CHAPEK Age: 74 Party: Democrat Education: attended Cuyahoga Community College and Ohio University Family: wife Lee (married 50 years); son Bob, a North Ridgeville resident; daughter Hollie Vokal, married with two children and lives in the Atlanta Chapek area; son Adam, a North Ridgeville resident Job history: worked for Durkee Foods as R&D manager for 15 years, Ingredient Technology Corp. as R&D director for 18 years, Gorton’s Seafood Corp. as R&D manager and QA manager for 15 years

CLIFFORD WINKEL Age: 45 Party: Republican Education: several state licenses in electrical and fire alarm construction Family: married with three children Job history: owner/operator of Wink Electric for 19 years Website: winkelforcouncil.com

repairing has dramatically decreased, which allows the funds to be used in other areas of need. Continuity is of the greatest importance for the position of fiscal officer.

Willard: The biggest issue facing the fiscal officer is maintaining accurate records of payments and transactions, and ascertaining that

Winkel

payroll and bills are processed accurately and timely. I am a highly motivated, detail oriented and organized individual with a desire to learn and serve. I would welcome the challenges and learning experiences involved with the office of fiscal officer.

— Christina Jolliffe

ELECTION 2019

The Chronicle-Telegram

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

17

OBERLIN COUNCIL

HEATHER ADELMAN Age: 41 Education: bachelor’s in environmental studies and political science Family: married with kids Job history: Current: Oberlin Food Hub (co-founder and director) and Oberlin City Council (first term); Past: Oberlin Project; US Environmental Protection Agency Web site: www.facebook.com/ HeatherAdelmanforOberlin/

Adelman

SCOTT BROADWELL Age: 63 Education: Oberlin Schools, bachelor’s from Bowling Green State University.

Family: wife Ellen F. Broadwell; two children: Carrie Broadwell-Tkach, Stephen Broadwell; three grandchildren Job history: Oberlin City Council 2008Broadwell 2017; owner Broadwell Painting. Community Organizations: Lorain County Community Action Agency, secretary; Oberlin Community Improvement Corporation, member; Oberlin Heritage Center, endowed life member and honorary board member

PETER COMINGS Age: 47 Education: bachelor’s in English, Grinnell College, 1994; Ongoing work toward AAS in public administration at LCCC Family: Jenna, Jace, Elizabeth Job history: Oberlin IGA, assistant manager, two years; managing editor, Press/West Life newspapers, eight years

Comings

RAY ENGLISH Age: 72 Education: bachelor’s from Davidson College; master’s and doctorate and MSLS from University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Family: Alison Ricker, spouse; John English and Michael Kennedy-English, sons.

Job history: director of Libraries, Oberlin College, 1990-2015; earlier library positions at the University English of Virginia and Duke University.

Web site: https://www.rayenglishoberlincitycouncil.org.

ELIZABETH J. MEADOWS Age: 74 Education: bachelor’s eegree (English, Political Science) Family: divorced (three adult children) Job history: Retired: 23 years, Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority; four years, Lorain County Urban League; four years, Elyria Pubic Library System; eight years, Lorain Pubic Library System

Meadows

BILL MILLER Age: 72 Job history: retired from Electronics Manufacturing Services Education: bachelor’s in economics from Cleveland State University Family: wife Ann Pilisy, dining and catering manager at Kendal at Oberlin Miller See CANDIDATES, 18

This year, 12 candidates are running for seven at-large seats on Oberlin City Council. Five incumbents: Heather Adelman, Kristin Peterson, Ronnie Rimbert, Kelley Singleton and Linda Slocum will face off against seven challengers: Scott Broadwell, Peter Comings, Ray English, Elizabeth Meadows, Bill Miller, Mary Price and Steven Thompson.

What makes you the best candidate for the position?

Adelman: It has been an honor to serve as a member of City Council. I am proud to have worked on the rewrite of the Climate Action Plan, draft legislation for LGBTQ protections and explore a curbside food waste composting program. I previously served on the boards of OCS, the farmers market and the League of Women Voters. I currently run the Oberlin Food Hub, a nonprofit I co-founded whose mission is to connect local farmers to local buyers, with a focus on K-12 schools.

The focal points of my campaign are sustainability initiatives, economic development/job creation and drinking water.

Broadwell: During my previous 10 years on Council, without fail, I worked hard for the best interest of the entire community.

After sitting out the last Council term because of term limits, I would like to continue to serve my community during the 2020-2021 Council term. Because of my experience, knowledge and history of the issues, and being able to work with city staff and stakeholders in Oberlin, I am well placed to make a positive contribution to the city and its citizens. If elected, I look forward to the opportunity to serve my community once again.

Comings: I grew up in Oberlin. I have an eye for information detail after 20 years in journalism that helps me understand issues and communicate opportunities to residents. Communication skills are critical in the modern age in which media is fragmented to this extent. I am furthering my education in the science of public administration and believe the combined value of my work and academic training will help me connect with all residents in providing sustainable citizenship.

English: I’m an experienced administrator who will work to make Oberlin city government more responsive and effective. I

have skills in conflict resolution, mediation, community dialogue and diversity and inclusion, abilities that can help resolve the conflicts that are all too common in our town. I will balance Oberlin’s commitments to social justice, environmental sustainability and community development, not letting one or more of those priorities be handled in ways that create division. I’ll be available to the community and will reach out with a sense of fairness, listening to Oberlin’s many voices while working to bring our community together.

Meadows: Oberlin has seven Council positions open with 12 candidates vying for election and we have a strong field of candidates. I feel I am one of the best persons for the job because of love of working with people and my previous experience on Oberlin City Council. I am prepared, if elected, to hit the ground running.

I know the preparation needed to consider and vote upon issues and, just as important, I know the importance of being available

and responsive to the citizens of Oberlin.

Miller: Elected as Council at-large, it would be my responsibility and privilege to represent the entire Oberlin community. I do not have a specific agenda or special interest affiliation. The non-partisan structure enables everyone to be represented and their voices heard. I will remain open to communicate with the people of Oberlin and advocate their concerns, making sound decisions that are best for the community.

Peterson: I believe that the depth and breadth of my civic involvement positions me well.

Current involvement includes: Oberlin City Council, Ohio Municipal Electric Association Board member, Oberlin Community Improvement Corporation (current chair), Vineway Board, Oberlin Cable Co-op Board, Central Lorain County Ambulance Board alternate, Oberlin Democrat Executive Committee and various church committees.

See OBERLIN, 18

Vote for

Kim Sturgill

Keystone School Board

• She has experience in the school district, 25 years as a teacher at Keystone in both special education and general education departments.

• She has proven herself as a leader through her active involvement on many school committees, as a Middle School and Varsity coach, as a teacher mentor, and as the district KLEA president.

• She is the current Co-president of KEEP, an educational endowment committee for student scholarships and teacher grants.

• She has lived in the Keystone community for 27 years, raising her children here, and committing herself to being an active member in the community.

• She regularly attends board meetings, and asks the tough questions.

What makes her a good choice for your vote?

I believe in public education and have proven that I will work for its success. I believe in the processes that make good decisions possible and am willing to devote the time and energy it will take to be successful in this position. I respect the employees of our district and am willing to listen to them without allowing my personal interests to overshadow the public interests of the district. Finally, I am willing to do the research to be informed and the courage to stand up for my convictions in order to do what is best for the children of Keystone Schools. I will be responsible with your vote of confidence in me.

Paid for by the Committee to Elect Kim Sturgill

18

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

OBERLIN From 17

Previous experience includes former board chair of: Lorain County Board of Developmental Disabilities; Mercy Allen Hospital Foundation; Elyria YWCA; Oberlin College Committee on Shareholder Responsibility. Former member of Minority Business Advisory Committee; Oberlin Recreation Commission; Oberlin College Alumni Council: Neighborhood House Association/ Alliance Board.

Price: I am a local business owner, a long-time resident, mother to a child attending Oberlin public schools, a teacher to hundreds of families in Lorain County and an alumna of Oberlin Conservatory and College with a degree in politics. I have the opportunity in my everyday work to hear many voices about what life is like for individuals living in Oberlin. We have communication concerns in our town, and I believe I’m in a unique position to bring these divergent voices together.

Rimbert: My leadership for 18 years: a. six years president of Recreation Commission; b. 18 years Oberlin City Council; c. four years president of Oberlin City Council; d. two years vice president of Oberlin City Council; e. accessible to the community; f. I have served on numerous boards and commissions; g. A clear understanding of municipal government; h. historical knowledge of Oberlin from the 18 years on Council.

Singleton: I was born and raised in Oberlin. As the father of two fourth-generation Oberlinians, I’m deeply connected to Oberlin’s past and have a strong vested interest in its future — both environmental and socioeconomic. Growing up in Oberlin and going to school here means I formed incredible bonds with everyone in town, not just west side or east side. It’s those bonds that give me my strong sense of empathy and the ability to listen to different perspectives.

Understanding and embracing Oberlin’s past is essential, but we must not be afraid to move forward as a community.

Slocum: I have the experience and skills to serve a third term on Council. As vice-president two terms, I provide leadership in agenda-setting and evaluation of appointees, always encouraging respectful communication among Council members. I’ve served on several subcommittees, including one focused on Council rules and commission guidelines. Liaison to the important Planning Commission for the past four years, Historical Preservation and Resource Conservation and Recovery for two years, I also frequently attend other commission meetings and town gatherings to stay informed and connected. Our city manager is people-oriented and project-driven. There is much to accomplish as we build community together.

Thompson: Purpose-driven, knowledgeable and a proven leader. I believe my personal and professional experience will bring new perspectives and offer new ideas to the issues our community will need to address moving forward. I want to advocate for people in this community who feel they have no voice, who feel they don’t matter. The only way I can accomplish that is having the opportunity to sit at the table where the discussions are taking place that impact our people. My goal is simple, help Council function as a team with one goal in mind…improve the city one issue at a time.

What is the biggest challenge facing the city and how would you address it?

ELECTION 2019 Adelman: I would like to improve Oberlin’s livability for all people through economic development/job creation and affordable housing. I would like to see city properties such as Green Acres and the old Bait Canteen building be developed with a combination of green space and housing. I was first inspired by the Women in Sustainable Employment (WISE) Program at OCS, a career pathways program that encouraged women to explore non-traditional careers and am interested in working with existing organizations to build on such programs to support efforts to address unemployment and underemployment in Oberlin.

Broadwell: The city has an opportunity for economic development and job creation by dispersing $2.8 million of Sustainable Reserve Funds into the community for worthy projects to further the goals of the Climate Action Plan. Close oversight by City Council is needed so that these funds are used in a fair and equitable manner for the benefit of the entire community, not just a select few. Also, as a member of City Council I will continue to work with the Oberlin Community Improvement Corporation to attract new industry and jobs, and to support and encourage business retention and expansion.

Comings: The biggest challenge Oberlin faces is to provide forward-looking opportunities for economic and social growth. The city manager acts as the current economic development director. We need to seek out commercial and industrial businesses which might not work in more traditional settings such as Avon and North Ridgeville. We also need new housing opportunities, giving lower income workers the chance to develop an equity interest in the community instead of renting. We need to actively seek out what we want next for Oberlin.

English: Our biggest challenge is to work cooperatively to address the problems we face as a community. To do that we need to resolve conflicts before they get out of hand, we need to increase understanding across lines of difference, we need to improve communication between the city and its citizens and among citizens themselves and we especially need to develop a shared vision of how we want to develop as a community. While no one person can do that, I think I have a combination of experience, training and skills that can help Oberlin move in that direction.

Meadows: One of the biggest challenges facing the city is deciding how to best use money gained from the energy credits. The decision must be used to meet environmentally positive sustainability goals and satisfy the desires of the community. Citizens have strong feelings about this windfall, so the Council must create and implement a plan that satisfies both requirements. I feel a small portion of the money could be given to electric ratepayers with the bulk of the money administered through the Sustainability Department for projects that meet sustainability goals, i.e., rebates for purchasing Energy Star appliances, fuel switching from fossil fuel to electricity, solar panels, etc.

Miller: Economic development is clearly the biggest and most important challenge. Oberlin College and Lorain County Community College graduates are prime sources for start-up companies and the city of Oberlin could facilitate a business incubator to help the community grow and prosper. High school students could benefit from more interaction with Ohio businesses of all types to broaden their exposure to opportunities they may not even have considered.

See OBERLIN, 19

The Chronicle-Telegram

KRISTIN L. PETERSON Age: 68 Education: bachelor’s from Oberlin College; master’s from Case Western Reserve University, Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences Family: widow of Everett E. Tyree after 36 1/2 year marriage; two adult sons Peterson Job history: Lorain County JVS, retired 35-year teacher; The UPS Store Owner/ Operator, 18 years; Elyria YWCA, youth director

MARY PRICE Age: 36 Education: master’s from Rice University, bachelor’s from Oberlin College in politics, bachelor’s from Oberlin Conservatory Family: married; 8-year-old daughter Job history: Owner of two music education businesses, Faculty at Oberlin Community Price Music School, Strings Coach at Northern Ohio Youth Orchestras, Associate Concertmaster of Mansfield Symphony Web site: www.facebook.com/electmaryprice

RONNIE J RIMBERT Age: 65 Education: Oberlin Schools, United States Marine Corps veteran Family: Wife Renetta Rimbert; four adult children; 10 grandchildren Job history: 18 years retail car sales; 12 years owner of “A 2 Point B” transportation service

Rimbert

KELLEY SINGLETON Age: 46 Education: Kent State University Family: wife Jeanne and two boys, 13 and 9 Job history: Natural Stone Institute Web site: www.facebook.com/Singleton.For. Oberlin/

LINDA SLOCUM Age: 74 Education: master’s from University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachussetts; bachelor’s from Ursinus College, Collegeville, Pennsylvania.

Family: married to Dr. Harold E. Slocum; three adult children; five grandchildren Job history: Oberlin College (gifts librarian and managing editor of Oberlin College Press); German teacher (LCCC and various colleges in PA)

Singleton

Slocum

STEVEN E. THOMPSON Age: 44 Education: 1993 Elyria West High School Graduate; 1998 University of Toledo graduate, bachelor’s of business administration in finance / minor in labor relations and collective bargaining; 2007 Baldwin Wallace University graduate, MBA business management Family: married 19 years to Melissa Thompson Thompson; three sons ages 11, 15 and 18.

Job history: 21 years at Ford Motor Co., production control analyst

The Chronicle-Telegram

OBERLIN From 18

Peterson: One of the biggest challenges facing the city is determining the best way to utilize the REC dollars in the Sustainable Reserve Fund. The fund was created and guidelines were approved to utilize those funds to help reach the goals of the Climate Action Plan. While maintaining and improving the city’s environmental sustainability, we must also be working to maintain the sustainability of the entire community, strengthening the cohesiveness and fabric of the community at large. I will address this issue as proposals to utilize the funds are brought forth for consideration and approval, asking how each proposal benefits the entire community.

Price: Communication. Our residents are often left feeling unheard and cut off from decision making. If I were elected to City Council, my top priority would be to implement processes that facilitate free flow of information between Council and residents. This would include using email, text alerts, digital boards, flyers in utility bills, etc, to provide monthly, bullet-pointed newsletters listing the topics being discussed by Council. I would request relevant input from residents through email, letters, listening sessions, Facebook messages, etc. Our residents are our most valuable resource for making wise decisions that reflect the best in us.

Rimbert: In my 18 years, there have been many large challenges and I have learned that we conquer them one at a time. The way that I address each challenge is by gathering enough information, through talking with city administration and then communicating with the community. The biggest challenge, as it always is, is to maintain our city services of police, fire and public works. Especially our public utilities to reach our sustainability goals through the Oberlin Climate Action Plan. It has been my extreme pleasure and privilege to serve this community for over 18 years.

Singleton: For our city to succeed, we must be as welcoming as possible to outside companies, and we must encourage local businesses to expand. By this, I mean retaining the businesses we have by addressing their concerns, whether it’s traffic, taxes, or anything that might cause them to consider moving. We should try to help them succeed and grow.

We need to encourage new development. We need to keep our eyes open for opportunities from beyond Oberlin. We can’t afford to wait for opportunities to come to us. Our city needs jobs. I won’t allow Oberlin to sit on its hands.

Slocum: Oberlin’s diversity is its biggest asset and challenge. Economic, racial and age differences underscore a need to listen to all voices in decision-making. I’ve drafted a plan for small neighborhood meetings to involve more people in civic discourse. The college and city are intertwined.

A positive working relationship between city and college peers (police chief with the chief of Oberlin College security, for example) addresses matters of mutual concern. The city manager’s listening session should continue with increased citizen participation. Other groups are working to advance understanding through honest discussion and mediation.

The city should welcome and support these initiatives.

Thompson: I feel the biggest challenge is social and economic growth. What draws people to our wonderful city?

Imagine for a moment: What would Oberlin’s true identity be if the college didn’t exist? Economic growth and affordable housing will play a role in creating this identity. I know people who would love to live in Oberlin, but there’s not much out there that’s affordable and available. With new schools on the horizon, how can the city leverage itself and use an investment like this as a tool to enhance the city socially and economically? Let’s start these discussions and work to improve.

— Sean McDonnell

ELECTION 2019 LAGRANGE MAYOR

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

19

AMY SCHMITZ

Incumbent Kim Strauss, who has been the mayor of LaGrange since 1999, will have competition in November as newcomer Amy Schmitz vies to take over the helm of LaGrange.

This is Schmitz’s first time running for public office. However, she has served as the president of her condominium association for three years.

What makes you the best candidate for the position?

Schmitz: I feel that changes need to be made and resident issues need to be addressed that are not under the current organization. I will be compassionate to the needs of the residents and will try my best to fix what is needed to make living here a great place. I will try to be as transparent and approachable as possible to keep all resident informed of what is happening in the community.

Strauss: I have guided this village through two sewer plant expansions saving the residents money by first repairing the initial plant to bring the village into compliance and then expanding the plant to be able to receive more material from Pheasant Run Village to increase revenue, holding down cost increases on village residents. I have worked with businesses throughout the village to build a community park in a joint venture with Lagrange Township, which has again saved money for the residents and created a great environment for children and adults alike. I was instrumental in bringing a library to the village instead of a book mobile one day a week. These things have been accomplished by working with a great group of councilmen along with thinking outside of the box, which is what was done when we teamed up again with the LaGrange Township trustees to build Opportunity Way business park, which created over 200 local jobs.

I believe that I am the best candidate for the position of mayor because of my experience, my drive to be a problem solver and a leader and most importantly my love and respect for this community. You will not find a better place to live.

See LAGRANGE, 20

SOUTH AMHERST MAYOR Incumbent Mayor David J. Leshinski is running against Council President Robert A. James. James sees his years of working as a construction supervisor as an asset, while Leshinski thinks his experience with the village’s operations give him a leg up.

What makes you the best candidate for the position?

James: As stated, 30 plus years as a construction worker.

Many years in supervision. A village is a giant construction job, daily. I feel I can manage and install a better function of the daily operation of business. The village has a lot of great people in positions to also make it a smooth operation.

Leshinski: I have been involved with the village since 2004 as a Council member, president of Council and currently serving as mayor. My experience in all aspects of village operations and hands on approach to provide solutions and direction are supported by my attendance at board and committee meetings to obtain firsthand information that is discussed so that I can be informed and provide information when requested. Should anyone wish to contact me to discuss any concerns or ideas, I will continue to have an opendoor policy to serve the public to the best of my ability.

See S. AMHERST, 20

Age: 37 Party: nonpartisan Education: associate’s degree in physical therapy assisting; associate’s degree in paralegal studies; bachelor’s degree in applied science Family: husband Ray Schmitz; son Schmitz Michael, 21; stepson Aiden, 10 Job history: certified pharmacy technician and licensed physical therapist assistant Website: None

KIM STRAUSS Age: 65 Party: nonpartisan Education: high school graduate and graduate of Oklahoma Farriers College; taken classes at Lorain County Community College; and completed/graduated from the Ohio Municipal League Leadership Strauss Academy.

Family: wife Marie Strauss; daughter Amanda Job history: mayor of LaGrange; worked in corporate at General Motors Acceptance Corp. for eight years, was then self-employed in LaGrange doing business as K & M Automotive for 28 years and also helped my wife in her business, The Village Gift and Floral. Worked for Burnett’s Septic Service in LaGrange for approximately five years and have been at Grey Hawk Golf Course for the past 10 years. I am also an independent travel agent with an office in my home.

Website: None

ROBERT A. JAMES Age: 54 Party: nonpartisan Education: Firelands High School; United States Navy Family: wife Annette; children Zac, Brian, Jeremy and Meggan Job history: sheet metal worker, Local 33, for more than 30 years Website: none

James

DAVID J. LESHINSKI Age: not provided Party: nonpartisan Education: bachelor of science from Kent State University; associate of arts from Lorain County Community College Family: wife Rosemary (Sclub) Leshinski; son Mark; daughter Dawn Job history: retired Website: none

Leshinski

20

ELECTION 2019

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

The Chronicle-Telegram

SHEFFIELD MAYOR occurs in the village. My experience, qualifications and education make me the best candidate for mayor.

Sheffield voters will get to choose between current Mayor John Hunter and Council President Pro Tem Carolyn White for mayor in November.

What makes you the best candidate for the position?

Hunter: My knowledge of Sheffield and my track record for getting things done shows I’m the best candidate. I am dedicated and loyal to the village. As an example, the three grants Sheffield received in the past few weeks from the state of Ohio with the state paying 100 percent of the cost to resurface Detroit Road (state Route 254), Abbe Road (U.S. Route 301) and Colorado Avenue (state Route 611) at no cost to the residents of the village. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources is paying 100 percent if the cost for the new sidewalks from Detroit Road to French Creek Road, being installed by our own great village service employees, at no cost to the residents of the village. Keeping taxes low and services high.

White: I have been a proud resident of the village for 20 years, and a councilwoman for 12 years. I have worked to bring progressive results to our residents.

My vision for the village involves “connecting the village to the people.” My goals are to enhance our village living by making it more family- and pedestrian-friendly by adding bicycle paths and sidewalks.

This will provide for our residents safety and added enjoyable village living. I have been an advocate of this for the last eight years. The village belongs to the people, and I want to ensure they have a voice in what

S. AMHERST

From 19

What is the biggest challenge facing the village and how would you address it?

James: The biggest challenge of the job will be to increase village revenue without taxing the residents to death. I feel I can lobby, and work with surrounding communities to bring a source of security to the village, and make it a safe and affordable place to live and raise a family.

Leshinski: Like most of the municipalities, the need for financial resources for operation

LAGRANGE From 19

What is the biggest challenge facing the township and how would you address it?

Schmitz: The biggest issues are the condition of the roads in the village, and the storm sewers overflowing during heavy rains and properties flooding. I will have to assess the current budget and plans/grants that are currently being worked on to try to prioritize and fix these issues.

Strauss: The biggest issue facing the village and schools is simple: money. State and local funds have been cut for the village and the township, Issue 2 money which has been used

What is the biggest challenge facing the village and how would you address it?

Hunter: The most important issue facing the community is to continue to “keep the village a village.”

I will address this issue if elected by: continuing our economic development progress through collaboration with local/state/federal officials to seek and secure grants for infrastructure i.e., sewer, water, streets and safety equipment for the village, and to advance the rolling five-year plan program instituted in 2008 (2008–2015; then 2015-2020; then 2020–2025) through communication with Council, businesses and residents. This is in keeping with our low real estate tax rate and providing superior equipment, which creates a strong work environment for our premiere fire, police and service departments. We have great residents, employees and businesses working together.

White: To grow our empty business parks by attracting good paying jobs to the village. This will enable us to add to our tax revenue and help ease tax burdens on our residents. This will also allow us additional revenue that can be used for our infrastructure improvements and in other areas of the village. As the mayor, I would address this by hiring consultants to work with the village, and by working closely with our business Realtors. Additionally, I would reach out to other cities to see how they have accomplished this challenge.

— Sean McDonnell

and materials is the challenge that the village has. The state has cut the Local Government Funds, which all villages and cities relied upon to provide services to their residents. The need to look at all avenues that are available to bring additional income such as grants and business development and expansion will enhance the well-being of the village. With cooperation from all departments, I have asked them to submit budget requests that emphasize essential needs to operate and provide the services that display responsible stewardship that will address and improve the quality of life for all the residents of the village of South Amherst.

— Christina Jolliffe to repair streets has been cut so it is harder to do street repairs. In other cities and some villages, they just assess the properties for the cost of road repair and put it on their taxes.

We have tried to stay away from that to keep taxes at a minimum. That is why I and Council accepted the old high school, it was less expensive to remodel this building than to build new and we were running out of room. These issues will continue and we will continue to address them as we have in the past by seeking grants along the way and working with our engineer to qualify for Issue 2 funds when available. We will also continue to look at new products and equipment to try and do as much in house as possible.

— Melissa Linebrink

JOHN HUNTER Age: 77 Education: graduated from Vermilion High School Family: married 58 years this past March to Chris (Virginia “Christine”); three children, Susan (Kevin) Carr, John David (Angela) Hunter, Beverly (Brian) Bishop, deceased Job history: 1960 to 1973 Ford UAW Assembly Plant in Lorain, committeeman and bargaining chair Hunter 1973 to 1983 Ford UAW Assembly Plant in Avon Lake, UAW president and chairman Locals 425 and 2000 UAW Region 2 (portions of Pennsylvania, Ohio and West Virginia), 1983 to 1987 UAW International assistant to vice president in Detroit for all 87 Ford plants in the United States, Canada and Mexico, 1987 to 2000 UAW International assistant to president in Detroit, Michigan, for 2,980 unions in the United States, Canada and worldwide; 2008 to 2019 mayor and safety service director for Sheffield Website: facebook.com/2019mayorhunter

CAROLYN Y. WHITE Age: 65 Education: studied management and labor relations at Cleveland State University; completed real estate curriculum at Lorain County Community College Family: three adult children; seven grandchildren; one great grandchild Job history: Retired bank branch manager 21 years White with KeyBank, assistant vice president and officer, licensed insurance officer, licensed investment officer

WELLINGTON VILLAGE COUNCIL land University. I bring experience and responsibility to Council. I am a lifelong resident of Wellington. My concern for the residents and the willingness to listen to them is a valuable asset.

Feron: I am a lifelong resident of What makes you the best candi- Wellington. One of my strong suits is date for the position? working and interacting with people.

Bughman: As a member of Village On the Village Council, I will offer a Council, it has been a pleasure to fresh perspective on issues as a probserve since 2016. My goal is to remain lem solver and communicator. transparent and base my decisions on Wells: I’m proud to have played a what will help our village expand and part in building things — the Metro grow through improved departments Park, the railroad underpass, downongoing renovations and upgrades. town sidewalks and parking lots, utilI strive to be vigilant with the issues ities infrastructure, a vastly improved that pertain to the safety and welpolice force— that serve everyone fare of the community. I spend the in Wellington every day. I’m proud bulk of my time with public works, that we’re working on projects like utilities, ordinance and Wellington the new police station and railroad Main Street, in part due to working in quiet zones. They’ll promote our summers at the wastewater treatment safety and quality of living for years plant and public works throughout to come. Most of all, I want to nurture my college career. I understand the Wellington’s unique combination of challenges that our employees and a “can do” spirit with the friendliness residents encounter on a daily basis and civility that have blessed me and help the Council understand throughout life. Fostering these for those perspectives. future generations will be our greatest Dronsfield: I am a retired teacher legacy. with a bachelor’s degree from Ohio University and a master’s from AshSee WELLINGTON, 21 Four candidates are running for three Village Council seats in Wellington. Incumbents Mark Bughman, Helen Dronsfield and Guy Wells are running, as well as challenger Gary Feron.

ELECTION 2019

The Chronicle-Telegram

BROWNHELM TOWNSHIP TRUSTEE

MARK BUGHMAN Age: 59 Education: 1979 graduate of Wellington High School; 1984 graduate of Bowling Green State University Family: single Job history: commercial/residential contractor in the building trades, interior designer, sound engineer and handyman. Contractor for Tech/R2-Renoldsburg, Bughman Ohio Draftsman/Designer/Proto-Type Builder

HELEN DRONSFIELD Age: 74 Education: bachelor’s degree from Ohio University in science and educatio;, master’s degree from Ashland University in supervision Family: two daughters, Jan and Samantha; five grandchildren Job history: retired teacher for 30 years in Wellington and 10 years at the Lorain County Joint Dronsfield Vocational School.

GARY FERON Age: 66 Education: Wellington High School, Polaris Career Center Family: married with five children Job history: retired Pepsi driver, manufacturer, manufacturing supervisor. Current Keystone school bus driver and McCormick Middle School cafeteria monitor

Feron

GUY WELLS Age: 71 Education: bachelor’s from Duke University; master and doctorate from Cornell University Family: I’m the last survivor of the fifth generation of my family to live in Wellington; my nephew Bert is the sixth.

Job history: current: village of Wellington council member since 1994. former: 2004-2012, various parttime teaching positions at Lorain County Community College, Kent State University, Baldwin Wallace University; 1982-2007: part owner and president, Wells Agency Inc., Wellington.

WELLINGTON From 20

What is the biggest challenge facing the village and how would you address it?

Bughman: One of the biggest problems facing the village of Wellington is our downtown historical buildings, which are in need of repair. The best solution to keep helping revitalizing the downtown is finding grants, winning contests and public donations/participation of all kinds.

Dronsfield: The biggest challenge is to be fiscally responsible to the citizens of Wellington. We need to continue to work with all the departments of the village.

Feron: Lack of communication with Wellingtonites is something I’ve been noticing. We need to have more ways to not only provide citizens with the information they need, but

Wells

encourage them to get involved in the community. This can be done by publicizing meetings more, bringing more events to the Patricia Lindley Center for recreation and encouraging the village to make use of existing communication methods, like social media and “Coffee with the Mayor.”

Wells: 1. Our industrial park is nearly full. We need to grow it to keep attracting jobs to the village.

This means more than just finding land — we’ve got to maintain the capacity of our electric and water/ sewer utilities to serve future growth.

2. We need to keep up our efforts to fix aging streets and expand/upgrade water and electrical capacity. These are essential to keeping and attracting the industry we need. Also, as technology evolves, we need to be open to new possibilities beyond our traditional utilities, especially in electrical generation and communications networking.

— Sean McDonnell

Voters will choose one of four candidates vying for the Brownhelm Township trustee seat this November. Incumbent Don Nieding takes on former trustee Gregory Abraham, Jason M. Hamman and Tom Rini in the four-way race.

What makes you the best candidate for the position?

Abraham: I am extremely knowledgeable in land and drainage issues. I have experience in road maintenance and road repair. I have been a resident of Brownhelm Township for 46 years and three of my five children also reside here, so I take pride and care about the township’s future.

Hamman: My combination of education and nearly 15 years of experience working in economic and community development uniquely positions me to provide Brownhelm Township with credible leadership as well as offering a new voice and vision moving forward.”

Nieding: I’ve been around. I’m long in the tooth.

I’ve been a resident of Brownhelm Township for 80 years. I served in the U.S. Army during the Cuban Missile Crisis and the Berlin Wall. I’d like to keep Brownhelm a beautiful place. Most people move in because it’s nice and quiet. I’d like to keep it that way. The gun range is a problem. I’m going to try my best to eliminate that and get the professionals to help us out.

Rini: My extensive experience operating a successful business for 31 years and my involvement in township affairs gives me the unique perspective we need at this time. I’ve regularly attended township meetings for more than a decade and recently initiated a township petition -- involving trustees and residents — which resulted in a Lorain County SWAC Grant. Additionally, I have a long history of serving our community in endeavors, such as the Special Olympics, CYO, St. Mary’s School Council. I also received the American Red Cross’ “Real Heroes” Award.

What is the biggest challenge facing the township and how would you address it?

Abraham: The biggest challenge the township faces at this time is the drainage issues. I would use my knowledge and experience in land development and drainage to help solve the drainage problems we have.

Hamman: Maintaining and improving infrastructure while also pursuing and managing growth opportunities. I will leverage my extensive professional experience working with communities to access state and federal grant funding to implement economic development tools that assist with project finance needs and to pursue partnership opportunities with other communities when beneficial to Brownhelm Township.

Nieding: Enforcement of zoning codes and working to take care of the nuisance gun range. It was OK’d by the Brownhelm Zoning Board, and it’s not working out well. The property values nearby have devalued. People just can’t live with the noise going on there. They can’t live a wholesome life there any more because of the gun range. I’m with the people.

I don’t like to see people come in and mess with our township, and that’s what is happening right now.

They are setting off bombs. Now glass is shattering because bombs are going off.

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

21

GREGORY ABRAHAM Age: 71 Party: nonpartisan Education: Firelands High School; four-year carpenter apprenticeship Family: married for 50 years; five children; nine grandchildren; one greatgrandchild Job history: Marine Corps veteran; self-employed builder and developer, 46 years Web site: none

Abraham

JASON M. HAMMAN Age: 43 Party: nonpartisan Education: master’s degree in public administration; bachelor’s degree in political science Family: no response Job history: president, Hamman Consulting Group; broker/owner, Hamman Realty Group Web site: none

Hamman

DON NIEDING Age: 80 Party: nonpartisan Education: Vermilion High School graduate; attended Bowling Green State University; Oberlin School of Commerce Family: married to Rosalie, 56 years; two sons Job history: retired after 45 years from tech service at U.S. Steel Web site: none

Nieding

TOM RINI Age: 59 Party: nonpartisan Education: Vermilion High School Family: married to Donna Rini, 33 years; three adult children Job history: owner/operator small business since 1988 Web site: www.facebook. com/rinifortrustee

Rini

Rini: Communication and accountability.

Whether it’s consistent flooding in our neighborhoods or lack of communication regarding important events — like a Storm Water Commission meeting or Township Dumpster Drop-off Day — it’s clear our township could better serve its citizens.

If elected, I‘ll be responsive to all constituents. I’ll keep watch over zoning concerns, schedules and budgets for regular maintenance and mowing of right-of-ways, culverts and ditches, and ensure our roads are maintained. I’ll do all of this while doing my absolute best to keep residents “in the know” with timely and consistent communication.

— Christina Jolliffe

22

ELECTION 2019

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

WELLINGTON SCHOOL BOARD The Wellington school board has two board seats up for grabs and three candidates vying for them. Incumbents Daniel Rosecrans and Kevin Stump are running for reelection alongside challenger Jessica Reynolds.

What makes you the best candidate for the position?

Reynolds: I am the best candidate for the job because I will work to create greater transparency and inclusiveness among the school board and our teachers, parents and students.

Rosecrans: The reason I believe I am the best candidate for school board is that I will always do what is in the best interest of our children, even if the decision is unpopular. I have no other agenda than to see our children and district excel. I am open minded about issues and welcome discussion.

Stump: I’ve had four years of experience in a time of great improvement and have practiced the collaborative leadership a board member should possess. I’ve learned the job isn’t easy, but with a sound plan and proper perspective the decision process, whether gratifying or difficult, can proceed with confidence. We have stability in our administration, a strategic plan, dedicated efforts around creative funding through grants, a prioritized investment strategy, and a standardized curriculum and these efforts are leading to positive results. I’d enjoy the opportunity to continue our work, and to lead the district toward even better experiences and outcomes.

JESSICA REYNOLDS Age: 34 Education: associate’s degree in business management and currently a student at Cleveland State University studying organizational leadership Reynolds Family: married for 13 years to husband Dusty; four children: Alaina (11), Mallory (11), Bentley (7), and Audrey (4).

Job history: Worked for seven years at Parker Hannifin where I began by working in the factory and worked my way up through various positions, spending the majority of my time there as a logistics coordinator. My husband and I became licensed foster parents and I took a couple of years off while we adopted our three oldest children. I now work for Columbia Gas as a contracted operations coordinator.

DANIEL C. ROSECRANS Age: none provided What is the biggest challenging facing the school district and how would you address it?

Reynolds: Our school district faces many challenges but I think one of our biggest is the steadily shrinking amount of enrollments over the past 10 years. If you look at 2009 we

CARLISLE TOWNSHIP TRUSTEE Incumbent Jared Smith will face James H. Zelenka. Road maintenance and repairs are the biggest issues facing the township, according to Smith. His opponent says township heritage and annexation need to be addressed.Voters will decide the real issues in November.

What makes you the best candidate for the position?

Smith: I have the experience and leadership skills to meet the challenges our township may face. I have been focused on safety concerns and have successfully worked with our Fire Department to provide quality officers and personnel within the ranks and replace aging equipment necessary for our firefighters to do their jobs. I have worked closely with the Sheriff’s Office and the Ohio State Patrol to provide safe township roadways and security in our homes. I am fiscally conservative and a proven good steward of taxpayer money, and I will continue to represent our township in an honest and dignified manner.

Zelenka: I have lived in Carlisle Township my entire life, along with my wife, Kristin of 41 years, and our two children. I was chairman of the Carlisle Township Zoning Commission for many years. While holding this position, I wrote language to protect the township from landfills, infrastructures, excessive housing

Education: graduated from Black River High School and attended Bowling Green State University Family: married to Jeanne (Farr) Rosecrans; daughters Megann and Rianna Job history: retired police officer; currently bailiff at Elyria Municipal Court

The Chronicle-Telegram

Rosecrans

KEVIN STUMP Age: 45 Education: bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in business administration Family: wife Samantha; son Jonah, 12; daughter Stump Camry, 9 Job history: Senior product manager at Bettcher Industries, current Wellington school board member and also past president of the school board

had 1,505 students enrolled, each year since the number has decreased. This year, we only have 896 students. We have 128 children who live in our district who are enrolled in another school. Young families are not looking at Wellington as a place to raise and send their children to school anymore. As a member of

JARED SMITH and farmland preservation. Serving on the board provided me with knowledge to what Carlisle Township needs and how to address any issues. During the time I served, I also attended multiple seminars, including Jennifer McSwayze Land Use. I have always had pride telling people where I live. I may not always do what is popular, but I will do what is right for Carlisle Township and its residents.

What is the biggest challenge facing the township and how would you address it?

Smith: We need to address the problems of our aging township roadways. They are now used more than ever before due to changing population trends with increased commuter traffic and increasing commercial traffic from delivery companies like Amazon, Fed Ex and the United States Postal Service. Road repair materials are becoming more expensive as are the costs of road maintenance equipment and the repairs, which continue to put a strain on the road department budget. This is a need that must be addressed and I will support a comprehensive review of the Road Department in terms of both financial and personnel concerns.

Zelenka: Preserving township heritage from farming to small business owners to home owners has always been important to

Age: 67 Party: nonpartisan Education: 1970 Elyria High School graduate; 1974 Ball State University graduate with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and Smith corrections; 1979 graduate of Ohio University; 1992 NARDA Institute of Management/Notre Dame University; 2017 Lorain County Sheriff Citizen’s Academy; 2018 Ohio State Fire Marshal “Feel The Heat” elected official training.

Family: wife Carol; children Erik and Jesse; two grandchildren Job history: Carlisle Township trustee;

me. Annexation is a key issue that must be stopped. The landfill creates its own problems with odor, trash blowing all over and possible water well problems, all of which fall on deaf ears when approached. The Brentwood Lake situation is a concern. The residents were left to fight this by themselves. Brentwood was a beautiful development with its lake. Now, they are left with weeds, debris, rodents, odors and one-way access. The newest challenge is home septic systems. With a mandate from the

the school board, I will work to restore our district, improve student services, enhance athletic programs and create a culture where we value the opinions of our teachers and parents.

Rosecrans: I think the biggest issue that faces public schools today is funding. The state of Ohio has a budget that can change from year to year and that directly affects school budgeting. We, as a board, are fiscally responsible. This is money that the taxpayer has given to the district for our children. It can’t be wasted or handled recklessly. The Wellington school district is asking our voters for a permanent improvement levy, Issue 18, to maintain, repair and improve our school facilities and grounds. Passage would lessen the strain on our district’s general fund.

Stump: Permanent improvement funding is also on the ballot, which is a big initiative that needs the community’s support. We have aging buildings in Westwood and Wellington High School, worn parking lots, heating systems and technology infrastructure that need significant investment, an ongoing focus on school safety, and a modernized and forward-thinking teaching and learning environment. With that, we also need to build on our momentum academically through additional gifted programming and STEM class offerings, plus expanded AP at the high school. There is a lot of progress to celebrate, but always more to accomplish.

— Sean McDonnell

Lorain County Board of Developmental Disabilities Murray Ridge, service and support administrator; Holbrook/Smith Maytag Home Appliances, owner.

Website: none

JAMES H. ZELENKA Age: 63 Party: nonpartisan Education: 1975 Keystone High School graduate Family: wife Kristin; two children Job history: selfemployed; Millwright Union; personal farm business Website: none

Zelenka

health department, systems must be maintained and/or repaired to meet current codes.

It is important we work with LORCO to take care of the most troubled areas. With all of the issues and challenges I have stated, we need to have special committees formed, starting with the residents of Carlisle Township and involving any officials needed to correct these problems.

— Christina Jolliffe

ELECTION 2019

The Chronicle-Telegram

COLUMBIA TOWNSHIP FISCAL OFFICER Residents will choose one of three candidates for What is the biggest challenge facing the fiscal Columbia Township fiscal officer. Mandie M. Andrews, office/township and how would you address it?

Bruce Doll and Rene Jacobucci all are vying for the Andrews: Finding ways to meet all of the needs of vacant seat. the fire department, the maintenance department and the township within the limited budget that we What makes you the best candidate for the receive from taxes. I am confident that with my expeposition? rience in maintaining budgets, expertise in organizaAndrews: At AT&T, while in sales, I was responsition and time management, and thinking outside of ble for a $25 million budget in small and medium business growth. I am the treasurer for the Columbia the box, I will be able to accomplish this.

Doll: The biggest challenge facing the township is Athletic Booster Club, responsible for setting the budget and managing the incoming money through the spike in developer interest and the overflow of fundraisers. I also am the office manager and do the the surrounding suburbs into Columbia Station. The fiscal officer may not have much say in the alteration bookkeeping for the family business. of zoning laws, but I’d like to keep Columbia TownDoll: I’m reliable, honest, and a quick learner. As ship quiet and rural and prevent it from becoming a young man looking to get involved, the vacancy of the fiscal officer position seems like a great opportu- another strip mall. If elected, I would work in the best interest of the people of Columbia Township nity. If elected, I’ll do the job faithfully, transparently and their elected trustees. and efficiently.

Jacobucci: In order to maintain the quality of Jacobucci: I have a combination of skills and services to better the community, I will work with experience. I am a team player, dependable, flexible the trustees and the heads of other departments to and can put all of my effort into the Columbia fiscal strategically budget resident tax dollars by applying officer position with more than 20 years of bookmy previous accounting experience to this position. keeping and payroll experience working with busiIf elected, I can step in and make the improvements nesses. I work with them on budgeting for quarterly taxes, end of year and for the future. My family and I necessary on budgeting and help assist with grant applications and all other duties that come with the grew up in Columbia and love the small town feel. If fiscal officer position. I know I am honest, responelected, I will look after the best interests of the ressible and dedicated as a resident of this community idents, work together with the township employees and trustees to provide the best services possible for and would love to serve as your fiscal officer.

— Christina Jolliffe this township.

ELYRIA TOWNSHIP TRUSTEE

MANDIE M. ANDREWS Age: 43 Party: nonpartisan Education: Columbia High School graduate, 1994; Bowling Green State University, 19941997 Andrews Family: husband Dan; children Alex, 10, and Morgan, 8 Job history: AT&T, 21 1/2 years, holding various management positions over that time. While in sales, I was responsible for a $25 million budget in small and medium business growth. Currently, I am a methods and procedures manager in charge of FCC compliance and coaching and development training both domestically and internationally in our support call centers.

Web site: none

BRUCE DOLL Age: 33 Party: nonpartisan Education: attended Case Western Reserve University, four years Family: single Job history: designed and ran tests

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

for aerospace grade fiber optic components; designed industrialuse wax injection molds for lost-wax casting; currently self-employed as an IT consultant and networking engineer Website: none

23

Doll

RENE JACOBUCCI Age: 50 Party: nonpartisan Education: Columbia Schools; Lorain County JVS; Lorain County Community College Family: husband Bill; sons, Nick and Mike Job history: Jacobucci bookkeeping/ payroll for State Custom Plumbing, 1998 to present; The Finishing Touch Wedding Decorators, 2009 to present; PaintWorks, 2014 to present; and Westview Concrete, 2018 to present Website: none

GRAFTON TOWNSHIP TRUSTEE

and commitment to our community. I would be honored to have the opportunity to make changes and build up our community.”

Hutman: I have served as a township trustee for the past 24 years. Prior to that, I served on the Township Zoning Board of Appeals for eight years and have been active in the successful passing of several fire levies. I have assisted in the creation of the Rowland What makes you the best candidate for the position?

Nature Preserve and our 9/11 Memorial. I have Benko: I have lived in Elyria Township my worked with the county, the health departentire life and want to see the community ment, solid waste, the Ohio Department of grow and thrive. I believe I can bring new ideas Natural Resources and others to leverage the township resources to provide improvements and fresh thought processes to the township.

My 39 years of operating a successful business for the residents. in our township shows loyalty, dedication See ELYRIA, 27

Voters will choose between long-time incumbent Richard Hutman and Laura Benko as they face off in the general election. Hutman touts his years of experience as the reason voters should choose him, while Benko hopes her fresh outlook and new ideas will be enough to win the seat.

LAURA D. BENKO

RICHARD L. HUTMAN

Age: 60 Party: nonpartisan race Education: graduated from Elyria West High School with high honors, and inducted into National Honor Society Family: married to Michael Benko Jr. for 38 years Benko Job history: manager for Deca Pools Service & Supply Inc. for 39 years Website: Facebook page “Laura Benko for Trustee”

Age: 60 Party: nonpartisan race Education: 1977 Elyria West High School Family: wife Vicki; daughter Jessie; son Jon; grandson Leeland

Hutman

Job history: Commercial estimator for the Northeast Ohio market for Carter Lumber Website: none

Two candidates are seeking to fill one trustee positions to be at the helm of the governing board in Grafton Township.

Once again, Andrew Weigel is vying for a spot along with newcomer Michelle Tompkins. Andrew Weigel did not respond to repeated attempts to contact him.

What makes you the best candidate for the position?

Tompkins: Living in Grafton Township since the early 1990s, my children and many of my grandchildren attended Midview Schools. Running our family farm in Grafton Township, my service with the post office, and the Grafton police, afforded me the opportunity to get to know township residents. I am civil minded and feel that the township and Grafton area has given me and my family so many opportunities, being elected as a trustee is a way to give back to the community.

What is the biggest challenge facing the township and how would you address it?

Tompkins: Keeping Grafton Township a safe farming community. I believe we should explore programs to assist and help the many senior’s in our community.

— Melissa Linebrink

MICHELLE TOMPKINS Age: 55 Party: Republican Education: high school diploma in 1982 from North Olmsted High School. Continued education as an adult, attended American Society of Tompkins Metals and became a metallurgist/ metallographer Family: married Jeff Levesque in 1986 and had Ricky, Jeffrey and Melissa. After Jeff’s death, married Kenneth Tompkins and together have 16 grandchildren Job history: From 1987–2000, Jeff and I operated the family’s heattreating/black oxide business. After selling the family business, began a career with the United States Postal Service, delivering mail in the Grafton area. In 2002, became a dispatcher with the Grafton Police Department, until retiring in 2012. Continued her service with the Grafton Police Department as a volunteer Auxiliary Officer and the Bailiff for Grafton Mayor’s Court. Also operates the family farm with Kenny.

Website: None

24

ELECTION 2019

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

SHEFFIELD TOWNSHIP TRUSTEE Former Sheffield Township Trustee Timothy S. Mihalcik will face off against current township Fiscal Officer Patricia F. Echko for a trustee seat in the the November election. Mihalcik has a plan to provide 24-hour ambulance service to residents, while Echko is banking on her money know-how to win her the seat.

What makes you the best candidate for the position?

Echko: I have 19 years of experience in township government, prudent spending habits and the ability to live within a budget. I also have had proven success in

The Chronicle-Telegram

PATRICIA F. ECHKO

writing grants. I am a representative on the County Trash Consortium, active in the Lorain County Township Association, serving as the first person from Sheffield Township to hold the office of president and currently serve as the executive committee person. I am the county township representative on the Lorain County Land Bank and also serve on the executive board of the Lorain County Community Alliance. Through these organizations I have developed valuable networking relationships.

Mihalcik: Sixteen years experience as Sheffield Township trustee

and life-long resident of the township. I have a proven track record, and a very good working relationship with all departments and trustees. While in office, I didn’t give 100 percemt, I gave 150 percent.

What is the biggest challenge facing the fiscal office/township and how would you address it?

Echko: The aging infrastructure is the biggest challenge facing our township. Our roads suffer through the harsh winters further causing deterioration.

See SHEFFIELD, 27

CLEARVIEW SCHOOL BOARD

Age: 65 Party: nonpartisan Education: bachelor of Science Business Administration Family: Golden Doodle Echko named Latte Job history: 2004-present, Sheffield Township fiscal officer; 19902005, owner of Erie Shore Mortgage Corp., 1986-1990, office manager Southmark Mortgage; 1974-1985, St. Joseph Hospital Fiscal Services

Website: none

TIMOTHY S. MIHALCIK Age: 71 Party: nonpartisan Education: 1966 Clearview High School graduate Family: married; six children; 12 Mihalcik grandchildren; 19 greatgrandchildren Job history: retired after 33 ½ years from U.S. Steel; 16-year township trustee Website: none

MICHAEL KOKINDA

Three candidates are vying for two seats on the Clearview Board of Education, two incumbents and one challenger. Current members Walter Koziura and Michael Kokinda are seeking re-election. They are challenged by Michael Post, who ran in 2017 but was disqualified for not having enough valid signatures on his petitions. He previously served on the board in 2016.

What makes you the best candidate for the position?

Kokinda: I have lived in the district since 1985, with four of my children graduating from Clearview. I am the current board president and bring my 35-plus years of business experience to the board. My focus is to provide sound policy and advice to the administrative team so they can be effective in running the district. I plan to continue to assist in adjustments to how the district operates so that our graduating students are successful in life.

Koziura: I would say i am the best qualified candi-

date because I have held office for four years, including three years as vice president. I also believe that we have accomplished a lot in keeping the public well informed on what is happening in the district.

I also recommended to have the lighted crosswalks installed with the strobe lights to ensure the safety of our children.

Post: I previously served on the school board in 2016 and 2017 but was left off of the ballot due to a clerical error. I have been involved in the schools since my graduation in 1975. I believe that the school is the backbone of our community and I will continually fight to keep it a community-based school.

What is the biggest challenge facing Clearview Schools and how would you address it?

Kokinda: Clearview Schools is not going to have an increase of homes to feed into the tax base from which most of the operational dollars are supplied.

Due to this, a balance of open enrollment students and good controls on spending are vital.

See CLEARVIEW, 27

Age: 56 Education: bachelor’s in technical education from the University of Akron Family: five adult children; five grandchildren Job history: IT relationship manager, Bon Secours Mercy Health

Kokinda

WALTER KOZIURA Age: 68 Education: high school and electrical apprenticeship Family: married for 27 years to Patty; four children, all of whom graduated from Clearview.

Job history: retired from Republic Steel after 49 years.

MICHAEL POST

Koziura

Age: 62 Education: graduate of Clearview High School Job history: manager of Parties To Go in Sheffield Township

KEYSTONE SCHOOL BOARD Three candidates are seeking to fill two spots in this year’s Keystone Board of Education race. Retired Keystone Middle School teacher Kim Sturgill is vying for a spot along with Melissa Grahn. They are both running against incumbent and current Vice President of the Keystone Board of Education Patricia Wakefield.

What makes you the best candidate for the position?

Grahn: I believe I am the best candidate for the position because I come from a different discipline, I will bring a new perspective on the issues that face the board. I plan to bring new ideas and introduce more security to our schools. I have two young daughters, one who is already in Keystone

Schools and another who will be joining her in a few short years. I want be a part of helping our schools solve any new issues they may face and help them continue the excellence they have already achieved.

Sturgill: I have been in the educational field for 36 years. I have worn many hats in our district, been part of many committees and attended most board meetings over the last few years to be sure I knew what was going on with our school district. I am a team player and while I say that, I am not a rubber stamp. I will do the research, ask the tough questions to make sure I am representing the people in our community, the teachers and most importantly the children of our district.

Wakefield: I have served on the Keystone

Board of Education for 24 years, and it is something I enjoy because I have a firm belief a quality public education opens doors which enable children to achieve success in later life.

What is the biggest challenge facing the school district and how would you address it?

Grahn: One of the biggest issues facing our schools is security. I would like to work on initiating a program to create a comprehensive team tasked with addressing student life issues. Students and faculty would be empowered to bring a potential issue or troubled student to light. The team would work with the student to address the issue.

This would allow the school to be proac-

tive instead of reactive. Assessments could address issues at home, substance abuse, bullying, anger and depression as examples.

The aim would be to alleviate the root problems and pressures that can cause students to act out violently.

Sturgill: Being a school board member does not mean we are in charge of the dayto-day operations but we are in charge of making sure those hired to do the job are doing the best that they can for the children in our district. I believe there are aspects of our district that can be improved whether it be improved programming to offer more educationally to our students, or better avenues for preparing our students for life after Keystone Schools.

See KEYSTONE, 25

ELECTION 2019

The Chronicle-Telegram

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

25

MIDVIEW SCHOOL BOARD Four people are running for two open seats on the Midview Schools Board of Education: Incumbents Dan Haight and Gary Wilson face challengers Brian Uszak and Rick Dawson.

What makes you the best candidate for this position?

Dawson: I’ve been part of this community for nine years and in that time I’ve been involved in a lot of aspects. I feel I have a good grasp on what the community needs and wants from its school system and I believe I can be that voice for them.

Haight: I bring a strong background of finance and operations into my role as a board member. My behavioral health background will bring new ideas to help impact our students in the area of social emotional education. I have been a dedicated Middie for basically my entire life. I work on and have worked on several Midview boards and committees such as Athletic Hall of Fame, After Prom, Youth Football, Levy Campaigns, Belden Hot Stove, coached baseball, football, basketball and soccer. I will continue to push for open communication and transparency. I grew up in Grafton Township and graduated Midview in 1993.

My wife and I returned in 2000 and have been raising our kids in the Midview community.

Uszak: I’m running to give a voice to the students, parents and taxpayers of the Midview Local School District. We need a change to challenge the decisions by taking a pragmatic, business-like approach. We have to make sure proper oversight is provided and our tax dollars are being spent with the best return for our taxpayers and

MELISSA GRAHN Age: 43 Party: nonpartisan Education: St. Joseph Academy, Rocky River; Ohio University, Athens, graduated with bachelor’s degree Grahn with double major in sociology/criminology and psychology; Michigan State University, master of science in criminal justice, emphasis on policing Family: husband Jason Grahn; daughters Kyriana and Olivienna Job history: Employed with the federal government for more than 17 years; assigned to the Department of Homeland Security.

Website: none

PATRICIA WAKEFIELD Age: 74 Party: nonpartisan Education: earned her associate degree from Lorain County Community College

Dawson

RICK DAWSON

BRIAN USZAK

Age: 46 Education: Vermilion High School, 1991 Family: wife, Rebecca; two children Job history: sales engineer, Avaya Inc.

Age: 47 Education: pursuing bachelor’s Family: wife Carrie; two children Job history: district sales Uszak manager at Quadient

DAN HAIGHT Age: 45 Education: Midview High School; bachelor’s from Baldwin Wallace; MBA, Cleveland State University Family: wife Julie; two children Haight Job history: Chief Operating Officer, LCADA Way, 2010 to present; IT Director, COO, CFO, Associate executive director, The Nord Center, 2006 to 2010

students. I believe I can energize the board and our district, a change from the complacency that has existed for years.

Wilson: My passion to promote creative innovative learning skills for our students, staff, parents, and taxpayers, that I often refer to as our “investors.’’ Help us grow and transition Midview from a blend of five communities to just one. I strongly believe that ‘The future belongs to those that challenge the present’ and what we need is to ‘Go M.A.D.’ (Make A Difference).

What is the biggest challenge facing

in the area of applied science in social work in 2007; currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree Family: four children, all who graduated from Keystone; five grandchildren who graduated from Wakefield Keystone, another who will graduate from Keystone in two years and one greatgrandchild Job history: has served on the Keystone Board of Education for 24 years; employed

by Comfort Keepers, a home-health care agency.

Website: none

KIM STURGILL Age: 58 Party: nonpartisan Education: two teaching licenses; one from Bowling Green State University where she graduated with a bachelor of science in education, specifically three areas of special education — mild, moderate and

GARY WILSON Age: 75 Education: bachelor’s degree from University of Akron, 1970; additional courses at Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland State Wilson University Family: wife; two children; four grandchildren Job history: active member of LaPorte United Methodist Church for 47 years the school district and how would you address it?

Dawson: I believe the school system is facing multiple challenges, not just one. I believe one challenge is making sure the school system stays financially strong now and in the years ahead. The other challenge is making sure our students have all the tools they need to get not just a good education but a great education.

Haight: There are two areas that face Midview now and in the near future. The first is adapting our education methods and community resources to help the students

intensive; received a bachelor of science in general education from Ashland University, licensed to teach grades one to eight with a qualification in science.

Family: married to LaGrange native Chuck Sturgill Sturgill, for 36 years; two daughters: Kaley, a nurse in labor and delivery at Fairview Hospital, married to Mike; and Karli, a physician’s assistant at Akron Children’s in their pediatric burn unit.

Job history: After college, she taught one year at Lorain Schools; followed by teaching work skills at Murray Ridge School. She then was an intervention specialist for eight years at Parma Schools before joining the Keystone Middle School in 1994 as an intervention specialist. She then began teaching science at Keystone Middle School, where she taught until she retired in May 2019 after 36 years in education.

Website: none

with social and emotional issues. A student will have significant less of a chance to succeed in learning if they have emotional or social issues. The next area of concern is infrastructure. There are plans for several new developments in the near future and our campus will need additional space and/or upgrades. The community needs a modern learning environment for not only for K-12 but for all those who want to be a continuous learner.

Uszak: Parents are being nickel and dimed with “general student fees” and AP class fees. Parents are having a hard time getting their high school children to school, high school busing needs to be addressed and restored, just as Amherst did. Seems as if getting less for more these days and it needs to be addressed. The zero tolerance anti-bullying policy doesn’t seem to actually mean zero tolerance based on conversations and first-hand experiences.

Wilson: Our school district covers 54 square miles and is made up of five different and growing communities. Growth of local tax support is limited. Very little of new property taxes comes back to the school district without passing new levies.

Unfunded state mandates are also an issue.

Our mission statement is to prepare our students to be productive and responsible citizens of the 21st. century. Community engagement is critical. Talent can win you games, but it takes leadership and intelligence to win a championship and I want Midview to become a champion for our community and perhaps even the state of Ohio and our nation.

— Laina Yost

KEYSTONE

From 24 Making the public more aware of what is going on, getting the parents and community involved in the educational processes of our district needs to happen all year, not just filling the board meetings when there is a major issue. How to do all of this, well I have a lot to learn if I am elected to the “other side of the table,” but you can be sure I will be actively listening and doing the hard work to get the job done.

Wakefield: One of the biggest difficulties that school board encounter is making the funds stretch to meet the needs of students. There are so many requirements for the funds making it difficult to make them stretch. Sometimes our constituents hopefully understand that we are trying to do the best we can for the most students. Additionally, in the time I have served on the board, there have been many changes concerning what requirements are for graduation and we have to focus on those changes so are students will be ready to move to the next stage of live whether it be college, military, apprenticeships and the workforce. There are many challenges to see that are students are well served.

— Melissa Linebrink

26

ELECTION 2019

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

AVON SCHOOLS

Money for programs Dylan Reynolds The Chronicle-Telegram

AVON — Avon Schools is seeking a 3.9-mill emergency levy to continue funding the district’s current programs and operations.

Superintendent Michael Laub said the money is needed because the district continues to be “underfunded per student” by the state. The district receives around $1,100 per student, while Laub said the amount would ideally be more than $6,000.

“That continued lack of funding creates a gap for us,” he said, “a continued gap as we grow and take on more students.”

While the issue is classified as an emergency levy, Laub said the district’s situation is not necessarily an emergency, but district officials found that levy option to fit the situation best.

Emergency levies are a property tax that serves as a limited operating levy proposed for a specific dollar amount.

If Issue 8 passes, the district anticipates that it won’t be back on the ballot for at least five years.

During that time, district officials hope to

ISSUE 8 What it is: 3.9 mill emergency levy Duration: 10-year renewable issue How much it would raise: $3.72 million per year Purpose: to continue funding programs and operations Cost to homeowner/taxpayer: The owner of a $100,000 home would pay an additional $136.85 per year.

continue working with the state to increase funding.

Laub said Avon Schools is a good steward of the money, landing in the bottom 9 percent in the state on per-student spending.

“We’re proud of what we do with kids and we’re proud of how we manage the money we do get,” he said.

Contact Dylan Reynolds at (440) 329-7123 or dreynolds@ chroniclet.com.

The Chronicle-Telegram

Timing key with bonds Dylan Reynolds The Chronicle-Telegram

AVON — Building improvements will be in the works at Avon High School if voters give the go-ahead on Issue 9. The levy is a “no new millage issue,” meaning homeowners wouldn’t be on the hook for more taxes if it passes, but they would pay less if the bond issue is defeated.

Avon Schools Superintendent Michael Laub said the district has about 1 mill of bond “falling off” its debt service and wants to keep that mill for use in school improvement projects.

“Right now is the time to get it done.

It’s when the mill is available to us,” he said.

The next time millage will drop off is 2035.

The funds would be used for a new performing arts center and common space renovations at the high school.

The current performing arts center seats just over 600 people, which isn’t large enough to fit half of the school’s more than 1,200 students. Capacity

ISSUE 9 What it is: 0.98 mil bond Duration: 36-year term How much it would raise: $17.5 million over 36 years Purpose: school building improvements Cost to homeowner/taxpayer: If defeated, owner of a $100,000 home would pay $34.30 less per year. If passed, no change as the about 1-mill was set to drop off.

would be increased if the issue is passed.

Regarding the performing arts center, Laub said it’s time the school looks at “putting a facility in place that’s more representative of our size and our students’ talents.” An addition would be added to the school to accommodate the center.

See AVON, 27

COLUMBIA SCHOOLS

2 levies are combined Renewal ‘important’ Christina Jolliffe The Chronicle-Telegram

COLUMBIA STATION — In an effort to get ahead of the building boom, and avoid repeatedly going to taxpayers for additional money, Columbia Schools is looking to combine two existing emergency levies into one substitute levy, according to Superintendent Graig Bansek.

The 9.24-mill substitute levy is not a tax increase, Bansek said.

“This will generate from new homes being constructed in the district each year,” he said.

“Right now, we’re fixed. This will allow us to collect on all of the new building going on around Columbia Station.”

According to Ohio Revised Code, the substitute levy is the same as an emergency levy in the revenue it generates (fixed dollar) and the taxes paid by current homeowners. The difference between the levies is that a substitute levy permits revenue growth on new construction in the school district each year. The existing levies generate more than $2.2 million annually.

The first year of the substitute levy would generate the exact amount of revenue as the two emergency levies that it is replacing, according to Bansek. After the first year, the existing homes/buildings will be taxed the same amount as previous years for the substitute levy, and new

ISSUE 10 What it is: A 9.24-mill substitute levy Duration: 10 years How much would it raise: $2.2 million annually Purpose: To raise money for necessary district requirements Cost to homeowner/taxpayer: The owner of a $100,000 home will pay $323 annually.

construction will be taxed at the previous year’s tax rate, increasing revenue for the district.

“This is not a renewal or an additional,” Bansek said. “This is what we are already collecting.”

The district has not asked for additional money since 2013, and won’t have to again until possibly 2028, according to Bansek.

“We won’t need additional funding as long as the state doesn’t cut our funding,” Bansek said.

“A lot of building is going on here, and we’re trying to get out in front of it. We’re at 5 percent in terms of what is expected to be built, and we’re trying to nail it before most of the homes get in.

We will be saving in the long run without asking taxpayers for additional funds.”

Contact Christina Jolliffe at (440) 329-7155 or ctnews@ chroniclet.com.

to building operation Christina Jolliffe The Chronicle-Telegram

COLUMBIA STATION — Like the other levy Columbia Schools has on the ballot, officials want taxpayers to know that this is not an increase.

Issue 11 is a 2-mill, five-year renewal levy that generates $420,000 for the district each year.

The money generated is used for general improvements.

Over the past five years, the district has updated its security cameras in schools and on buses, as well as made technology upgrades and renovations to the middle school kitchen and science labs. Buses have been replaced and a maintenance facility was built.

There also have been upgrades to the windows and air conditioning at the high school, among other projects.

The levy is important to district operations, Superintendent Graig Bansek said.

“We have to use our operating

ISSUE 11 What it is: a 2-mill renewal levy Duration: five years How much would it raise: $420,000 Purpose: To raise money for general permanent improvements Cost to homeowner/taxpayer: The owner of a $100,000 home would pay $70 annually.

expenses leniently,” Bansek said.

“If that money goes away in the future, we will have to have an additional operating levy. This money is used to fix and keep our buildings up to standard and safety standards as well. It is very important to the operation of the school district.”

Contact Christina Jolliffe at (440) 329-7155 or ctnews@chroniclet.com.

ELECTION 2019

The Chronicle-Telegram

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

27

Facing deficit, Lorain Schools seeks levy Carissa Woytach The Chronicle-Telegram

ISSUE 13

LORAIN — Lorain Schools would remain in the black if voters approve a renewal levy Nov. 5.

Issue 13 is a renewal of an existing levy providing emergency funds for the district. It would generate $3.1 million a year for seven years. The current levy expires Jan. 1. It would not raise taxes.

School treasurer Josh Hill warned without the levy, his forecast shows the district in a deficit by 2022. If the levy does not pass, the district will be under fiscal watch by the state, ahead of a fiscal emergency when it runs into deficit spending.

“The way it works is typically in a watch (it) will make recommendations, when it goes into warning, that’s when they really start doing more mandate type of things and then if you’re in emergency, essentially it’s state takeover of your finances,” Hill said. “So they start dictat-

ELYRIA

What it is: 5.15-mill emergency renewal Duration: seven years How much would it raise: $3.1 million a year Purpose: provide funds for emergency requirements of the school district.

Cost to homeowner/ taxpayer: The owner of a $100,000 home would pay $157.72 per year

ing everything. The way to offset that is you have to lower your expenditures in some way, shape or form.”

The two biggest costs for the district are contracted services and salaries and benefits.

Hill said he doesn’t make decisions on where potential cuts come from if the levy doesn’t pass, but making changes to those line items would yield the quickest results.

The district’s current general fund budget

From 23 What is the biggest challenge facing the township and how would you address it?

Benko: I would like to research and improve outdated infrastructure to improve drainage issues impacting the residents. I also want to address outdated fire equipment to better equip our fire department to perform safety services and increase training opportunities for both road and fire departments. I also want to improve board to residents communication to better address concerns in a timely matter. I want the residents to feel like they are being heard and that the issues they bring to the board matter.

Hutman: There has been very little growth in the township. We need to find the resources to assist property owners in attracting new residential and commercial development to improve our tax base. We need to review our zoning resolutions to make sure they meet the needs of our residents and business owners.

— Christina Jolliffe

AVON From 26

He said the kitchen renovations would be “totally internal,” not requiring an addition to the building, although one room would be lost and used as part of the larger kitchen.

The lunchroom would also get a face lift. Plans call for the room to expand into part of the school’s courtyard, which can only be used during parts of the year due to weather.

If the issue passes, Laub anticipates seeing “dirt moved” by this spring and the facility to be built over the 2020-21 school year.

Contact Dylan Reynolds at (440) 329-7123 or dreynolds@chroniclet.com.

is $72 million a year. Hill notes in the grand scheme of that budget, Issue 13 is small, but if it fails, could set a precedent for larger levies to come.

The district will have three renewals on the ballot in 2022 — totaling $11 million to $12 million, Hill said, and to set the trend of not passing renewal levies with this year’s smaller issue is a concern.

The community’s confidence in the levy is a concern, Hill said.

School Board President Mark Ballard said passing the levy helps avoid cuts to staffing and instructional supplies.

“There is much at stake and we need every vote,” he said. “I pray every ‘yes’ vote makes it to the polls Nov. 5th.”

Whether or not voters will support the levy is the “$3.1 million question,” Ballard noted.

“If CEO David Hardy Jr. isn’t gone before Election Day then I don’t believe we have a chance at the polls,” he said. “We’ve been given assurances by the Attorney General’s

office, the State Superintendent of Instruction and Academic Distress Commission that CEO David Hardy Jr. will no longer have any influence over our schools and tax dollars. ... I can tell you this — if Hardy’s not gone, even I won’t be voting for this levy, and I don’t think our community should either.”

This is the district’s last shot at passing the renewal. Under House Bill 70, the 2015 law that allowed for the state takeover of Lorain, Youngstown and East Cleveland schools, placing a levy on the ballot is virtually the only power of the elected school board. Lorain’s board previously refused to put a levy on the ballot unless the CEO was removed from office — including threatening to pull it from the upcoming November ballot.

Hardy deferred specific questions about the levy to the school board and others, but stated he is in support of the renewal.

Contact Carissa Woytach at (440) 329-7245 or cwoytach@chroniclet.com.

CLEARVIEW

SHEFFIELD

Though currently the district has a strong balance sheet, we must remain aware that things can change drastically in a relatively short period of time. Making good fiscal decisions will allow the district to not have to request new tax dollars from the voters.

Koziura: The biggest challenge is to get our report card raised. I think this can be accomplished by making sure our teachers and administrators have the right training and the proper tools and material available to them.

Post: I would continue to strive to keep our school system financially sound to offer our students the best education possible.

— Carissa Woytach

Storm water affects our roads so drainage goes hand in hand with road repairs. Many of our tiled storm sewers are aging and needs replaced with larger tile. There are grants available to help assist with these needs through community development and the storm water district. Lincoln Boulevard was resurfaced through a grant I wrote and most recently a $125,000 grant to resurface Clifton Avenue was awarded. I will continue to pursue funding to improve our township.

Mihalcik: One of the biggest challenges facing the township is to provide 24-hour ambulance and EMT services to the residents. This can easily be done now with the billing program I introduced with trustees about 10 years ago. This paid off the new fire station. My plan now is to use this program to add 24-hour ambulance and EMT services with no new levy.

The money is there and that is what it’s meant for. If I have my way, this will happen quickly.

— Christina Jolliffe

From 24

From 24

Erie County Health District seeks renewal Rini Jeffers The Chronicle-Telegram

VERMILION — Vermilion voters are being asked to renew a levy that provides public health services throughout Erie County and all of Vermilion.

The city straddles Lorain and Erie counties, but its public health programs are solely provided by the Erie County General Health District. The district oversees a dozen outreach clinics, including one in Vermilion Township, and it also operates a community health center that provides an array of services, including dental, detox, behavioral health and immunization clinics, said Peter Schade, health commissioner.

The district also looks after environmental concerns, such as conducting water safety tests on 28

beaches daily from May through September, including Vermilion’s.

It also provides training for food service operators, more “means of fulfilling our mission of preventing disease,” he said.

The levy consistently wins voter approval on both sides of the county line, which district officials take as a good sign that the community recognizes its value.

“We’re proud of that and we’re working with people to do everything we can to improve their quality of life without being heavy-handed,” he said.

For information on its programs and services, visit eriecohealthohio.org.

Contact Rini Jeffers at (440) 329-7155 or ctnews@chroniclet.com

ISSUE 12 What it is: a 0.3-mill renewal levy Duration: five years How much would it raise: $650,000 annually Purpose: to support public health services Cost to homeowner/ taxpayer: The owner of a $100,000 home will pay $9.09 annually.

28

ELECTION 2019

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

The Chronicle-Telegram

JVS looks to fix outdated structures Laina Yost The Chronicle-Telegram

OBERLIN — Lorain County Joint Vocational School is going to the voters this November with a permanent improvements levy, which can only be used for construction Superintendent Glenn Faircloth said the school has been operating on the same rate since 1985, which they can use to pay bills and do repairs, but the building needs too much improvement to survive on that amount, Faircloth said.

The building structure is outdated, Faircloth said. The JVS has old galvanized piping that has caused issues throughout the building.

The JVS was forced to close after Labor Day recently due to piping issues.

Faircloth said they were able to do a patch on it, but it will need replaced.

Faircloth said there’s major safety issues

ISSUE 14 What it is: a permanent improvement levy Duration: 10 years How much it would raise: about $4 million a year Purpose: to repair outdated Lorain County JVS building structures Cost to homeowner: The owner of a $100,000 home would pay about $23.16 a year.

with parking lots, and they’ve had to close parts of it due to the condition and the work that needs to done or redone. That could cost about $2 million.

Buzzing into the building doesn’t always work right, and there’s also lighting issues that need upgraded.

Faircloth said there’s carpeting throughout the building that also needs replaced, and the labs need updated.

Some of the bathrooms in the building are inoperable, Faircloth said.

Ceiling tiles need replaced, and Faircloth said the ones they use aren’t sold in stores anymore. A new roof would cost about $3 million to $5 million. There’s also no sprinkler system.

The school also needs a fire suppression system and other safety upgrades.

“It’s getting to a point where things are getting out of hand,” Faircloth said. “That’s why we’re bringing this to the community. We’ve done all we can do and been responsible with the money.”

The levy would allow the school to make upgrades and reinforce aging structures.

The local chapter of Totally Engaged Americans — the tea party — has protested the

levy, calling it an excessive ask of taxpayers.

State Education Board Member Kirsten Hill, chairman for the local Tea Party, has said the funding ask is disproportionate compared to what the rest of the schools in the county get for infrastructure.

“It’s not a money grab,” Faircloth said. “It’s for improvements. We’re getting to the point where things need to be replaced, and that’s where the cost shoots up.”

The amount the levy would give them is a little over $4 million a year.

“We hope this community will support us,” Faircloth said.

“We humbly ask; we’ve been around almost 50 years. ... We are the only school system that belongs to the county, we just ask that the county supports us.”

Contact Laina Yost at (440) 329-7121 or lyost@chroniclet.com

New London Schools would add athletic facilities Christina Jolliffe The Chronicle-Telegram

NEW LONDON — Currently, the Wildcats use the Parks Department’s football field and track, but it is an older facility that doesn’t quite meet the needs of the students, according to Superintendent Brad Romano.

“There are some safety concerns,” he said. “And there are academic needs. If we had a facility on campus, we would be able to use the fieldhouse for health

and fitness classes.”

If approved, work could begin as soon as the spring with the track completed by spring 2021 and the stadium completed by fall 2021, depending on weather and construction timelines.

“We’ve had a lot of positive feedback from the community,” Romano said.

“We’re not looking to overtax. We feel very confident with the feedback that we’ve received that we will be successful in November.”

If voters approve the measures, the bonds can be sold immediately, however, taxpayers would not see a rate increase until 2023.

“Currently, we have an academic levy on the books that falls off in 2022, so residents will not pay for both measures at the same time,” Romano said.

“When the academic one falls off, the other would take effect.”

Contact Christina Jolliffe at (440) 329-7155 or ctnews@chroniclet.com

ISSUE 15 What it is: A 3.45-mill bond and a 2.9-mill levy Duration: 30 years and five years, respectively How much would it raise: The bond will raise $6.7 million, while the levy will raise $300,000 a year.

Purpose: The bond will raise money for a new stadium and field house on campus, while the levy will raise money for permanent improvements to existing facilities Cost to homeowner/taxpayer: The owner of a $100,000 home would pay $119 annually for the bond issue and $101 annually for the levy.

Wellington Schools seek money to fix aging buildings Sean McDonnell The Chronicle-Telegram

WELLINGTON — Wellington Schools is asking voters to pass Issue 18, which is a combined issue of two levies.

One levy is a 1.99-mill bond issue for $8.7 million. If passed, the Lorain County Auditor’s Office reports it will cost property owners $69.95 per year for every $100,000 their property is worth. It will last 37 years.

The second levy is a 1-mill general improvement levy. The Lorain County Auditor’s Office reports it will cost property owners $35 per year for every $100,000 their property is worth.

If passed, the levy would be continuous.

Superintendent Ed Weber said the levies are needed for repairs and renovations at both Westwood Elementary and Wellington High School. Weber said both are in need of repair and outdated.

He said the work the district wants to do is modest, but needed to ensure the future of

both schools.

“We’re trying to get something that’s functional but safe and allows for a modern education,” Weber said.

Weber said two thirds of the bonded levy will go toward Westwood, while a third will go toward the high school. He said the most costly projects are roofs and parking lots at both schools, along with adding air conditioning and improving the heating at Westwood.

He said the schools aren’t in a position of desperation, but that repairs at both buildings need to be made soon so that the school system isn’t in a bad spot.

“We can’t take it to the breaking point and really be looking at our student priorities,” Weber said. “If you go any much longer, you’re going to push (the district) into a breaking point and we don’t want to be there.”

Some smaller but still costly projects Weber said need to be done are upgrading the electrical systems, creating modern workstations

with flexible seating options and redoing the kitchen at Westwood, which Weber said is still heated by its ovens.

Weber said the 1-mill general improvement levy is meant to give the school district money to keep up the two buildings after the renovations are complete. He said the district decided to put the two levies together, since they are part of one issue.

He said residents might not notice all of the improvements because the schools are trying to be modest with their spending and fix the crucial items that need to be done.

“I wouldn’t say that this issue takes care of everything the school district ever needs,” Weber said. “It should be able to make the schools nice for the next generation of students.”

Contact Sean McDonnell at (440) 329-7148 or smcdonnell@ chroniclet.com.

ISSUE 18 What is it: Two levies No. 1: 1.99-mill bond Duration: 37 years How much would it raise: $446,711 per year, or $8.7 million in total Cost to taxpayers: $69.95 per year No. 2: 1-mill general improvement levy Duration: Continuing How much would it raise: $224,478 per year Cost to taxpayers: $35 year Purpose of both: to renovate and maintain Westwood Elementary and Wellington High School

ELECTION 2019

The Chronicle-Telegram

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

29

NORTH RIDGEVILLE SCHOOLS

Money sought to address overcrowding Dylan Reynolds The Chronicle-Telegram

ISSUE 16

NORTH RIDGEVILLE — Voters are being asked to fund a new high school, elementary school and bus garage in North Ridgeville.

Issue 16 would raise the $142 million required to build those facilities.

Superintendent Roxann Ramsey-Caserio said the district’s current facilities are inadequate for the number of students in the district, and repairs and renovations don’t necessarily fix the problems.

“Truly we are just throwing money at really expensive repairs and makeshift adjustments,” she said.

At Liberty Elementary, Ramsey-Caserio said there is not a proper cafeteria or gymnasium, so one common space is being used

What it is: 7.54 mill bond issue Duration: 37-year bond (maximum) How much it would raise: $142 million Purpose: to build a new elementary school and high school Cost to homeowner/taxpayer: The owner of a $100,000 home would pay an additional $263.90 per year.

for several purposes.

“We’re rolling out tables as quickly as we can to have a space for kids to eat, and then we roll them out to have PE class in there,” she said.

The district has grown by more than 700 students in the past decade, and around half

of them arrived in the last two years. Ramsey-Caserio believes the district is facing an “overcrowding crisis” and this levy could help alleviate that problem.

Renovating the current schools would not be feasible financially because the state does not help with funding when the cost to renovate exceeds two-thirds of the cost to rebuild. The state determined that renovating Liberty Elementary School and the high school would cost 70 percent or more of the rebuilt budget, Ramsey-Caserio said.

If Issue 16 is passed, the new schools would be built on the district’s existing sites and the state would reimburse 24 percent of the project’s total cost.

The high school would include a 1,000seat performing arts center in the building. The current high school does not have

an auditorium, and plays and musicals are held at the district’s Early Childhood Learning Community. Ramsey-Caserio said the performing arts center would be a welcome addition for students in arts programs and the community.

“Not only can the community enjoy, but also our students will have an appropriate place to perform districtwide,” she said.

Additionally, the new high school would provide a better learning environment for students, including more classrooms with windows, whereas the current school has a lot of interior classrooms. Electrical issues and gas leaks that have been problematic at the current school would be eliminated.

Contact Dylan Reynolds at (440) 329-7123 or dreynolds@chroniclet.com.

Ridgeville school levy is 40 percent of budget Dylan Reynolds The Chronicle-Telegram

NORTH RIDGEVILLE — A substitute operating issue that is equal to around 40 percent of the school district’s operating budget is on the ballot. The levy would replace four levies that are expiring in the next four years. “(Issue 17) allows us to take those individual levies and combine them into one,” Superintendent Roxann Ramsey-Caserio said.

The substitute option allows the district to increase the amount the levy brings in over time. As new properties are built, existing property owners do not pay less taxes, unlike in a renewal levy. This has the potential to raise significant money for the district if houses continue to be built at a rapid rate in the city.

Issue 17 is not a new tax, and the owner of a $100,000 home would continue paying $358.93 each year.

Ramsey-Caserio said the substitute levy will keep the district’s finances stable

through at least the 2022-23 school year, allowing them to keep a promise not to ask the community for more operating dollars until at least 2022.

“It’s important to know that the last time the schools asked for new operating dollars was 2012,” she said.

If Issue 17 fails, Ramsey-Caserio said the district would likely either renew their expiring levies or try putting the substitute operating issue on the ballot again.

Contact Dylan Reynolds at (440) 329-7123 or dreynolds@chroniclet.com.

ISSUE 17 What it is: an 11.72-mill substitute operating issue Duration: continuing How much it would raise: $10.6 million annually Purpose: to maintain current programs, transportation and staffing Cost to homeowner/ taxpayer: The owner of a $100,000 home would continue to pay $358.93 per year.

LOCAL OPTIONS ISSUE 3

What is it: Columbia Township local option – Sunday sales Purpose: To allow the Columbia VFW Post 9340 to serve liquor on Sundays If Issue 3, Columbia Township local option is passed, the Columbia VFW Post 9340, 25742 Royalton Road, would be allowed to sell liquor on Sundays. Currently, the post is only allowed to sell beer on Sundays, according to Post Commander Frank Madey.

The idea to ask voters to approve the selling of wine and spirits on Sundays came after the post remodeled the hall.

“We put in new floors, lighting, ceiling and updated the kitchen and when we get calls from people wanting to rent the hall on Sunday, we have to tell them we are only allowed to sell beer,” Madey said, adding most possible renters look elsewhere in the community to host their event.

Madey said since the post put money into remodeling, it should take full advantage of what it can offer and that means offering beer, wine and spirits to guests on Sundays.

“A lot of places, our competitors, have their Sunday licenses and we’d like to give the

community another opportunity for a hall rental on Sunday,” Madey said.

ISSUE 4A

What is it: Local option sales for Brentwood Golf Course in Eaton Township Purpose: to allow the establishment to serve alcohol.

ISSUE 4B

What is it: Sunday sales for Brentwood Golf Course in Eaton Township Purpose: to allow the establishment to serve alcohol on Sundays In November, voters will have the opportunity to approve Issue 4A and 4B that would allow Brentwood Golf Course to begin serving beer, wine and spirits to guests Monday through Saturday, plus Sunday sales as well.

According to owner Kevin Flanigan, the golf course was purchased in 2018 by himself, his wife, Gail Flanigan and Cary Gill. Kevin Flanigan said the family-operated business has a provided a quality golfing experience for golfers, but offers other opportunities for the public

to socialize with friends. However, the only disadvantage compared to other establishments is the sale of wine and spirits on during the week, plus Sunday, because it is currently not allowed.

That is why the owners decided bring put the issue on the November ballot.

“Our customers, leagues, outings at Brentwood Golf Course need these to pass to allow us to stay open for business,” Flanigan said. “The passage of the Issue 4A and 4B will let us continue to stay in business and be a business asset to Eaton Township and the surrounding area. This will also allow us to possibly expand the food and beverage service and create a full-service restaurant.”

ISSUE 5

The Elyria Food Mart in Elyria Township is looking to sell alcohol and liquor on Sundays with Issue 5.

ISSUE 6

What is it: allows Brickyard Bar and Grill to sell wine and mixed beverages and spirituous liquor

on Sundays.

A local restaurant is asking voters in New Russia Township to pass Issue 6, which will allow it to sell liquor and wine on Sundays with a D-6 permit.

The company looking for the permit is Sterk’s Catering Inc., which is doing business as Brickyard Bar & Grill, 580 W. Lorain St. Front of House Manager Shaun Sterk said the restaurant can sell liquor Monday through Saturday, but it has only been able to sell beer on Sundays since it opened in 2015. He said the plan has always been to get the permit to sell on Sundays, but until now he hadn’t had a chance to complete the petition process to get it on the ballot.

“Running a restaurant and finding time to walk door to door is kind of difficult,” Sterk said.

Sterk said since the Cleveland Browns have improved, business on Sundays has improved as well, making the D-6 permit more of a priority.

Brickyard Bar and Grill is open during football season from 12:30 p.m. to 10 p.m., and opens at 2 p.m. during the off season.

— from staff reports

30

ELECTION 2019

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

The Chronicle-Telegram

Money would update county lab Dave O’Brien The Chronicle-Telegram

ELYRIA — Lorain County commissioners are asking the public to support a levy to update and improve the Lorain County Crime/Drug Lab. Currently housed in the basement of the Lorain County Administration Building, where the employee cafeteria used to be, complicated urinalysis machines stand next to an unused deep fryer.

The levy will generate $595,000 annually and cost the owner of a $100,000 home an additional $2.80 a year, according to county officials.

The money will help the county move the lab out of the basement and into a former grocery store on Broad Street in downtown Elyria.

“We’re not asking a lot for lab for the important work it does,” Cordes said recently.

“It’s a conservative ask,” Commissioner Sharon Sweda said. “A fair ask for a vital service that we need.”

The lab currently has an annual budget of about $300,000, and shares a levy with the Lorain County Drug Task Force that nets the lab about $193,000 a year. The remaining money comes from the county’s general fund and elsewhere.

If the lab is moved out of its temporary location, the county can seek accreditation once the lab is in a permanent location. With that comes the opportunity for additional state and federal funding to support the lab’s operations.

ISSUE 19 What it is: a 0.08-mill levy Duration: Five years How much would it raise: $595,000 Purpose: to support and update the Lorain County Crime/Drug Lab Cost to homeowner/taxpayer: The owner of a $100,000 home will pay $2.80 annually.

The lab supports local police agencies and the Lorain County court system by testing unknown substances including suspected dangerous drugs in a safe environment. It also does urinalysis for adult probationers and fingerprints juvenile offenders on behalf of the Juvenile Court.

As it stands, the basement of the Administration Building is not equipped with enough bathrooms to properly perform urinalysis, County Administrator Jim Cordes said. Being able to move the facility to a new location would allow the county to update a building for that purpose.

Drug testing can determine within 45 minutes in some cases whether a substance is a dangerous drug like fentanyl or heroin. It is faster to do the testing locally and that can also help protect local police officers, firefighters, paramedics and EMTs who come in contact with the unknown substances while on-duty.

If they should need treatment for exposure

KRISTIN BAUER / CHRONICLE

The urine analysis machine is situated next to a fryer and oven in the Lorain County Crime Lab. at a local hospital, the doctors and nurses will then know what kind of treatment is required based on the test results. Law enforcement also will be able to get dangerous drugs off the street more quickly, lab Director Elizabeth Doyle said.

Speedy returns on court-ordered drug screens will allow adults on probation to get on with their lives if they test negative or to be ordered into treatment or jail by local judges if they test positive.

With the move, juvenile offenders — who are not allowed to have contact with adult offenders — can be fully separated from their adult

counterparts for testing purposes.

County officials said they hope to expand fingerprint testing to include prints lifted at crime scenes, and hope to join the lab with a proposed countywide evidence storage facility in the future.

Doyle said she also wants to have a place where she can train local police on how to safely and properly handle dangerous or unknown substances and teach safety standards along with best practices.

Contact Dave O’Brien at (440) 329-7129 or dobrien@ chroniclet.com. Follow him at @daveobrienCT on Twitter.

Most of Columbia library’s Money maintains Pittsfield Twp. roads funding come from levy Christina Jolliffe The Chronicle-Telegram

COLUMBIA TWP. — When residents vote on the ColumbiaTownship Library renewal levy this November, they are voting for 90 percent of the library’s operating budget.

“We receive 10 percent of our budget from the state of Ohio Public Library Fund, and the other 90 percent from this levy,” said branch manager John Guscott.

“This levy ensures residents receive the same services and gives us a chance to expand on them.”

The 1.74-mill, five-year levy raises $394,000 annually. But due to an increase in the township’s population, residents will pay less annually for the same services.

“Currently, residents pay $53 annually,” Guscott said. “They will pay $47 annually with the renewal.”

Residents are typically supportive of the levy, which has been on the books since 1955, according to Guscott.

“A lot of people from the community use the library, from the book sale to the schools to local businesses,”

ISSUE 2 What it is: A 1.74-mill levy Duration: five years How much would it raise: $394,000 annually Purpose: Current expenses Cost to homeowner/taxpayer: The owner of a $100,000 home will pay $47 annually.

Guscott said. “This levy ensures we will be able to continue purchasing materials for all ages, making sure we continue programs for everyone from early childhood to seniors and everyone in between.”

Money raised also will go toward paying staff, maintaining electronic and streaming services and general operations.

Funds will help to expand technical options and remain up-to-date with wireless access and hotspots, as well as expand outreach to the community.

Contact Christina Jolliffe at (440) 329-7155 or ctnews@chroniclet. com.

Sean McDonnell The Chronicle-Telegram

Pittsfield Township will ask voters to renew a 2-mill levy to pay for maintenance of repair of township roads.

If passed, the Lorain County Auditor’s Office reports that Issue 7 will cost property owners $23.95 per year for every $100,000 their property is worth. The projected revenue for the levy is $47,985 each year, and a passing vote would renew the levy for another five years.

Township Trustee Mark McConnell said the levy has been renewed for several years. He said the township regularly renews it for the same amount.

“It’s almost like a normal part of our budget and we just use it as best we can every year,” McConnell said.

ISSUE 7 What it is: 2-mill renewal levy Duration: five years How much would it raise: $47,985 Purpose: maintenance and repairs to township roads Cost to homeowner/taypayer: The owner of a $100,000 home will pay $23.95 each year.

He said the money is used to maintain the township’s 19 miles of roads, and that 5 to 6 miles are worked on each year. McConnell said the township will spend anywhere from $100,000 to $150,000 on road work each year.

Contact Sean McDonnell at (440) 329-7148 or smcdonnell@chroniclet.com

ELECTION 2019

The Chronicle-Telegram

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

31

Amherst voters asked South Amherst to cut marijuana fines seeks levy for Sean McDonnell The Chronicle-Telegram

Amherst voters will decide on Issue 20 which is an ordinance — if passed — that would reduce the fine for misdemeanor marijuana offenses to zero.

The issue got on the ballot because of a petition filed with 896 signatures in November 2018 by John Horn, who said he started the petition because he didn’t believe people should have a criminal record for misdemeanor marijuana possession.

He said a possession of marijuana criminal record can impede a person from going to college or getting jobs and “the punishment doesn’t fit the crime in my view.”

Horn said most of the law stays the same, except each of the fine amounts were replaced. The ordinance as written would make having 200 grams or less of marijuana carry no fine, as well as reduce the fine to zero for using marijuana. He said the ordinance won’t change anything regarding felonies, like drug trafficking or operating under the influence.

Police would still be able to write tickets and enforce the law; Horn said the changed ordinance just removes the penalty.

“The idea is to take away the monetary value of them writing the ticket,” Horn said. “So unless it’s for the good of the community, they shouldn’t write it.”

Amherst Police Chief Joseph Kucirek said the department is opposed to Issue 20. He said passing the issue will lead to more questions than answers.

“I know that this is a trend across Ohio and we get that, but I think that they’re a lot of unknown consequences from this,” Kucirek said.

“We don’t know what all the consequences down the road are going to be.”

Kucirek said the 200 gram limit in the ordinance is high, allowing someone to carry nearly half-apound of marijuana. He said with

ISSUE 20 What it is: Amherst ordinance Purpose: Reduce penalties for marijuana misdemeanor offenses

a general worth of $20 a gram, the ordinance could allow someone to have up a few thousand dollars of marijuana with no fine.

He said the ordinance also doesn’t clarify what the penalty would be for juveniles. The ordinance also reduced the penalty for giving up to 20 grams of the substance as a gift to zero dollars.

“What are the consequences of this?” Kucirek said. “That’s the question for the voters.”

Horn responded to the chief’s concerns, saying the ordinance only affects misdemeanors. He said the ordinance also leaves the law intact and enforceable.

“If the police still want to charge someone for it and they deem it necessary, they can do so,” Horn said.

The amounts in the ordinance, including the 200 gram limit, is set by state law, Horn said, and not the city. He said since the state decided 200 grams and under was a misdemeanor, the proposed ordinance reflects that.

Kucirek said removing the financial consequences of the ticket also removes the incentive for people to not do the illegal activity. He said if the police did ticket an individual, it would still send someone to court to face a predetermined $0 penalty.

He said if there isn’t a penalty for doing the action, he doesn’t see how anyone would follow the ordinance against it.

“I guess if there’s no consequence, no penalty, then I don’t see it as a logical ordinance,” Kucirek said.

Amherst Law Director Anthony Pecora said the charges could still be prosecuted. He said the charges wouldn’t result in a monetary pen-

alty, but would result in keeping a record of offenses, which could be useful for prosecutors and law enforcement. He said the Law Department and Police Department would have to have a conversation about the value of prosecuting the offenses if Issue 20 passes.

“We don’t want our officers wasting taxpayers time or dollars, but there may be some sort of value to pursuing the charges even if there’s no financial consequence,” Pecora said.

Pecora said that if Issue 20 passes, it wouldn’t stop other agencies that make arrests in the city from charging under the state law, which would include the penalties.

He said Amherst police could also potentially charge under the state law, but that policy would have to be decided on if the issue passes.

Oberlin Municipal Court Judge Thomas Januzzi said it’s unclear whether the voter-adopted ordinance would trump state law if an offender was charged under it. The ballot issue does present another problem.

Januzzi said there’s a section of the Amherst ordinance book that says an offense only exists where there’s a penalty, and Issue 20 would remove that penalty.

If that holds up, and if Issue 20 passes, Januzzi said he would opt not to rule on minor possession cases anymore. The judge said he doesn’t have a stance on the ballot issue.

As for the amount of marijuana Issue 20 would let you carry, Januzzi said most cases he presides over don’t come anywhere close to 200 grams. He said most cases involves a joint or two, and only one case in Oberlin Municipal Court in 2019 involved over 100 grams.

“We don’t see people driving around with massive amounts, not even 100 grams,” Januzzi said. “We just don’t see it.”

Contact Sean McDonnell at (440) 329-7148 or smcdonnell@chroniclet.com

new fire engine Christina Jolliffe The Chronicle-Telegram

SOUTH AMHERST — It’s been three years since the village first tried to get a levy approved that would purchase a new fire engine for the township.

With each failed attempt, the engine just gets older and needs more repairs, according to fire Chief Al Schmitz.

Right now, the village has two engines — a 2005 model and a 1989 model. The newer engine is the primary one and the older engine is the back up.

“We’ve done a good job keeping it road worthy, but it has a bad tank and the brakes are obsolete,” Schmitz said. “They can’t be replaced. They’re OK for now, but when we need to replace the front brakes, we also will need axles for the brakes.”

A new engine will cost more than $300,000, but will be a cost-saving measure in the long run, he said.

“These older trucks are really starting to cost money, which takes away from the day-to-day operations,” Schmitz said.

The department operates six vehicles — two engines, a tanker, a heavy rescue vehicle, a grass fire first responder vehicle and a command vehicle.

The heavy rescue truck is a 1998 and requires $15,000 in repairs.

“I live in this village,” Schmitz said. “It is what it is. If we can’t afford a fire department, we have to contract with neighboring fire departments, and we’re going to pay for that, too.”

If the department loses its back up engine, the township’s insurance rating will go down, which will end up costing the homeowner more in insurance.

“We’ve done a very good job over the years keeping up with the

ISSUE 29 What it is: A 1.5-mill levy Duration: 5 years How much would it raise: $45,000 annually Purpose: to raise money for a new fire engine Cost to homeowner/ taxpayer: The owner of a $100,000 home will pay $52 annually.

equipment and vehicles we have,” Schmitz said. “This is a large investment.”

But it’s needed, he said.

If approved, the levy will raise $45,000 per year, costing the owner of a $100,000 home about $52 annually.

The Fire Department is in a tight spot and has to ask for money because of the damage done by disgraced former South Amherst Clerk Kimberly Green, according to Schmitz.

She pleaded guilty in 2016 to stealing more than $677,000 from the village treasury.

Schmitz said she was stealing directly from the safety forces fund.

“I was the one who caught her because I started to get hit by vendors who weren’t getting paid,” he said.

It’s routine for equipment purchases of $20,000 to be made from the fund, which is one reason Green’s thefts went undetected for so long, the chief said.

Finances have been tight since Green’s thefts were discovered.

She was ordered to pay restitution but Schmitz said taxpayers are left in a bind in the meantime.

The levy wouldn’t be necessary if the safety forces fund had never been raided, he said.

Contact Christina Jolliffe at (440) 329-7155 or ctnews@chroniclet.com.

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Tuesday, October 22, 2019

AVON ISSUE 21 AVON — Voters are asked to give approval on a rezoning issue in town that would change 3.57 acres of residential land along Avon Road between Nagel Road and Pine Drive to office zoning.

Pam Fechter, the city’s planning coordinator, said developer Shire Glen Green Management LLC, who owns the land, came to the city seeking to build an office building on the property.

Issue 21 only relates to the zoning of the land. If it passes, Shire Glen would still be required to get approval from the city Planning Commission before building anything on the land.

R-1 zoning, the current classification of the land, permits the development of standard single-family dwellings on individual lots.

AVON ISSUE 22 AVON — Bowling alley and entertainment center Main Event is seeking a permit to sell liquor on Sundays. The business, at 35605 Chester Road, has been open since summer 2018.

John N. Neal, a partner at Walter Haverfield law firm, said on behalf of Main Event that the business

AVON ISSUE 23 AVON — Minotti’s Wine and Spirits, 35925 Detroit Road, is seeking a permit to sell beer, wine and liquor Sundays. Manager Charles Sandrew said Sunday sales would give the community a quick option for buying alcohol without having to go to a grocery store.

“It gives them a place to buy beer and wine on Sundays, especially during Browns season and

ELECTION What it is: Avon rezoning Purpose: To change 3.57 acres of land along Avon Road from residential to office zoning

The zoning classification sought, O-1, allows for “functional and aesthetically pleasing areas for conducting business to serve as a transitional area between residential uses and commercial uses,” according to Avon’s codified ordinances.

Rezoning the land to O-1 “kind of stops commercial development” there, Fechter said. The designation would prevent businesses and industrial properties from setting up on the land.

She added that the rezoning proposal has received positive recommendations from the Planning Commission and City Council.

— Dylan Reynolds

What it is: Local option Sunday sales Purpose: To allow Main Event to sell liquor on Sundays

already has the ability to sell beer and wine on Sundays, but the local option would allow it to sell spirituous liquors as many other local businesses already do.

— Dylan Reynolds

What it is: Local option Sunday sales Purpose: To allow Minotti’s Wine and Spirits to sell beer, wine and liquor on Sundays

things like that,” he said.

The business has been open in Avon for more than six years and had to apply for the permit when it relocated to precinct 3-C. — Dylan Reynolds

ELYRIA ISSUES 24 - 28 ISSUE 24

What it is: Sunday liquor license for True North 325, 905 Lorain Blvd. in Elyria voting precinct 2-C.

ISSUE 25

What it is: Sunday liquor license for Don Tequila, 1134 N. Abbe Road in Elyria voting precinct 4-D

ISSUE 26

What it is: Sunday liquor license for Dawg House Bar and Grill, 1138 N.

The Chronicle-Telegram

Abbe Road in Elyria voting precinct 4-D

ISSUE 27

What it is: Sunday liquor license for Just One More, 1509 West Ave. in Elyria voting precinct 5-D

ISSUE 28

What it is: Sunday liquor license for Express Petro, 501 N. Abbe Road in Elyria voting precinct 7-B

With over $400 million of public & private happening…

Your Support Is Needed to Keep the Momentum Going Reinvesting in infrastructure with an emphasis on neighborhoods streets, plus roads, bridges and sewers.

Improving safety with reinstitution of the Narcotics and Neighborhood Impact Unit, better equipped police force, new EMS standards.

Supporting & attracting existing and new businesses with plan and new incentives, new Community Improvement Corporation, workforce development programming. (Five new industries, 11 industry expansions, 50 new businesses)

Expanding no-cost and low-cost youth programming like Reach and Rise Discovery Camps and after school programming.

Refurbishing 350 acre parks system including neighborhood parks and Cascade and Elywood with the Lorain County Metroparks.

Invigorating downtown with new corridors, streetscapes, lighting, fountain, renovated buildings, new businesses, a thriving arts district and library to come.

Energizing Midway area with a new highway reconfiguration, new hotels, new investors, new regional businesses and more in process.

Managing Chestnut Commons growth: control through annexation, working with developers, building Broad Street/Chestnut Commons Connector to help alleviate traffic.

Improving and expanding our neighborhoods: 350 new housing starts, demolition of 300 nuisance properties, clean-up of former General Industries, community gardens.

Returning quality of life programming with donations that support fireworks, concerts, festivals, holiday lights, art shows and more.

Encouraging citizen participation/ transparency: Mayor’s Office on Volunteer Engagement, quarterly community-based dialogue sessions, communications: Cable Channel 1025, city website, mayor’s blog, Elyria Citizens Facebook and Instagram @ CityofElyriaOhio.

Saving taxpayers Money: Over $3 million. Audited departments, reduced longevity, personnel & operation adjustments, energy conservation, merged health department with county.

Collaborating with schools, library, Metroparks, health district: Assisted library with site acquisition/ preparation; schools with fee reductions and land use; Metroparks with Cascade & Elywood lease agreement; merged with Lorain County Health District.

Please Re-elect Elyria Mayor Holly Brinda Paid for by Citizens to Elect Holly Brinda, 263 Windward Drive, Elyria, Ohio 44035